Average Water Bill UK (Latest Stats, Figures & Tips)

Average Water Bill in the UK in 2024: Latest Stats, Figures & Tips

Managing household expenses includes understanding the average water bill in the UK for 2024. With various factors influencing water costs, from usage habits to regional variations, being informed can help you better manage your bills. This article delves into the latest statistics, figures, and expert tips on managing and reducing your water expenses.

Overview of Water Billing in the UK

Understanding Water Charges
Water charges in the UK are determined by water suppliers and regulated by the Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT). The charges cover the cost of water supply and wastewater services, ensuring the infrastructure is maintained and environmental standards are met.

Components of Your Water Bill
Your water bill comprises two main components: water supply charges and wastewater charges. Water supply charges cover the cost of delivering clean water to your home, while wastewater charges cover the cost of removing and treating the water you use.

Did you know that each individual in a household uses somewhere from 80-100 gallons of water every single day? The average household in the UK uses 27,000 litres of water per year. That’s equivalent to using a bathtub full of water each day!

If you use this much water on your daily activities it can be difficult to cut down at first, but there are some easy steps you can take to reduce how much is used without making too many changes. 

In this article, we’ll discuss what to expect for your average water bill in the UK, how you can cut down on your water usage and how much that could save you each month.

What is the Average Water Bill in the UK? 

Latest Stats on Average Water Bill in the UK

National Average
As of 2024, the average annual water bill for households in the UK is approximately £408. This figure represents a slight increase from previous years, reflecting rising costs in infrastructure maintenance and environmental standards.

Regional Variations
Water bills can vary significantly across different regions in the UK. For instance, households in the South East may pay higher water bills compared to those in the North West, due to differences in water supply sources, infrastructure costs, and regional policies.

In order for citizens of the United Kingdom (UK) to understand what they pay for per year, one must first understand the components of a water bill.

As previously mentioned, 27,000 litres of drinking quality tap water is used annually with public mains supplies.

Additionally, each household will use an average of 8000 litres for the flushing of toilets (i.e., WCs), baths/showers, spas or swimming pools, and approximately 4000 litres to water gardens. Of course, that last bit is assuming that they have a garden to water.

Chances are that water usage will just come from somewhere else if you don’t have a garden. 

The good news is that despite UK inflation, their rates for water usage have pretty much stayed the same, and even come down in recent years. In fact, water.org.uk announced that for 2023/2024 “the average annual bill will come down from £413.33 to £396.60, although there will be variations from company to company“.

While bills like energy bills are consistently on the rise, fortunately we can depend on our water bills to be a bit more constant.

What you will find is that the Water UK Chief executive is very supportive of keeping rates reasonable while still providing quality water and responsible wastewater management.

You will find that the UK also has resources for people struggling to pay the water bill. We will talk about that in more detail later in the article.

The recent inflation rate rise was minimal considering the fact that those rates have remained steadfast through the years. 

Factors Affecting Your Water Bill

Household Size
The number of people living in your household directly impacts your water usage. Larger households tend to use more water, leading to higher bills. Conversely, smaller households generally incur lower water costs.

Water Usage Habits
Your daily habits, such as showering, washing dishes, and gardening, also influence your water bill. Implementing water-saving practices can significantly reduce your overall consumption and costs.

Metered vs. Unmetered Charges
Homes with water meters are charged based on actual usage, while unmetered homes are charged based on the rateable value of the property. Metered billing typically encourages more efficient water use, potentially leading to lower bills.

Water Bill Calculations

We did some playing around with the number to try to figure out just what you might be able to expect for your water bill. There are calculator tools out that that can help determine your usage and the costs for such usage. 

Here are some examples and their results. For the purpose of these calculations, we utilise the calculator available from Anglian Water Services Limited.

For a single person household that takes regular showers, washes 3 loads of laundry a week, 2 loads of dishes, and waters their garden 4 times in a hot summer, the average usage is about 169 litres per day. This is considered above average for a single individual but the estimated yearly bill for this usage calculates to £314.

Totals courtesy of Anglian Water Services Limited calculator.

Now, let’s run a similar calculation for a couple. In this calculation, we raised the number of people in the home to 2, added a couple of showers so they have showers almost daily, kept loads of laundry at 3, dishes at 2, and watering the garden in the summer.

The usage actually reduced slightly to 121 litres per day and the annual cost went up very little for the added person. 

These totals also came from the Anglian Water Services Limited. 

But what about a family with several kids? We can look at that too! For the next calculation, we factored 5 people into the household. We assumed that each member would bathe almost daily. We chose 5 loads of laundry each week and 7 loads of dishes and left the garden watering the same.

Again, water usage per person was reduced because the water being used actually serviced more people at one time. Interesting, eh?

You can use the calculation for any number in the household and whatever you think realistically fits your situation. The key here is that more people doesn’t necessarily mean that the water usage is excessive. It obviously will be higher, but there are also times that the water used will be used in a more conservative manner because it’s benefitting everyone in the house and little water is being wasted. 

The Anglian Water Services Limited calculator is a great resource for the area to try to plan water usage and the possible bill they can expect for retail water services. The numbers will change for water consumers based on their usage and their activity, but this gives you a general idea. 

How Are Water Bills Calculated? 

So how exactly do they calculate the water bill? They don’t just randomly pull out a number for water consumers and say “ok here’s your number!”.

In most cases, water is charged based on water meter calculators. The water meter tracks your water usage, and then average household water bills are calculated based on the usage from the water meter and the current water rates of the company they get water service from. 

Some water companies are unmetered and instead charge water rates based on the rateable value of the home you reside in. In this case, the water rates are designated to the home regardless of actual usage or the number of people contributing to household water bills. 

If for some reason you are in an unmetered property and feel like you’re overpaying, you might be able to save money by requesting that a water meter be used – this may or may not save money water wise on the bill. 

In the case of no water meter, the water company rateable value used is the assessment of the rental value of that property. That value is typically outdated, so it’s possible if you want to save money on water bills you will need to request a meter for a more accurate representation of usage.

It’s a good idea to view bills so you understand the water rates and how your water company bill or usage is calculated. It also may be an opportunity to track usage and determine if the water bill charging might be incorrect as well.

Keep in mind that your water company will have both water bills and sewerage bills typically. The water may come from the reading or the water meter, but the sewerage bills may be a standardised rate (or be based on other specific factors).

According to Southern Water, the smallest change in your water routine might have a significant impact on your household charges scheme and end up costing you money. Did you know that if you take regular baths, you could switch for a shower and a few bucks each year?

Tips for Saving on Your Water Bill

Now that we’ve discussed some basic statistics and just exactly what goes into the water bill, let’s talk about how you can save money on your water bill in the UK as well. If you want to save money on water bills, you can take small steps to make a big difference.

Regular Maintenance

One step in reducing monthly bills is through regular maintenance around your home . Make sure any leaking faucets are repaired immediately, don’t leave hoses attached while not in use, keep sprinkler systems adjusted properly so they aren’t watering during the hottest parts of the day, and so on.

Install Rain Barrels

Another great way to save money on a monthly basis is by installing rain barrels. If you’re looking at putting in new landscaping, consider native plants over grasses (which require more watering, making them less efficient overall).

Less Baths, More Showers

We mentioned before that changing your routine from baths to showers could make a difference. We’re not saying you can’t enjoy a long soak in the tub, but try cut down on the number of them that you enjoy. This could save you ₤50 a year at least. 

Shorter Showers

If you’re the type of person that likes to take long showers, you should know that this is costing you money. A good way to save money water usage is to reduce your shower if possible. Reducing the shower by even a minute every shower could impact your annual charges and that adds up over time!

Tapping Out

Another change to your habits you might be able to make is to not run the kitchen tap for long periods of time. When you’re washing dishes, do you tend to just run the water while you wash?

Did you know that if you use a bowl or plug the sink drain, you might be able to save yourself £50 a year or more? This particular instance is actually one of the biggest water wastes that occur in most homes.

Load It Up

When you run the dishes or the laundry, make sure you are running full loads so that the water used is not wasted. Washing half loads or not using up all of the available space in the dishwasher or washing machine requires more loads to be run and it doesn’t put your water to work for you. 

If you make strides in all of these areas, you could significantly save money water on your bill. 

Help When You Need It: Social Tariffs

Some companies offer social tariffs. These tariffs are basically a discount for anyone who is considered low income or perhaps receiving certain benefits that might qualify them for the assistance. Water companies do have different household charges scheme work so it’s important to check with your water company to see what they can do for you.

Additionally, some companies use a portion of water company profits to assist with household water bills or contribute to charities that provide additional assistance.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are struggling to manage your household water bills commitment, take the time to check with your company to see what they have available. You might be surprised at the options and how they are willing to help. 

Tips to Reduce Your Water Bill

Efficient Water Usage
Adopting water-efficient habits can make a significant difference in your bill. Simple actions like taking shorter showers, turning off taps while brushing teeth, and using full loads in dishwashers and washing machines can reduce your consumption.

Water-Saving Devices
Installing water-saving devices, such as low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and faucet aerators, can reduce the amount of water used without compromising on performance. These devices are often inexpensive and easy to install.

Fixing Leaks
Leaky taps and pipes can waste a substantial amount of water over time. Regularly checking for and fixing leaks can prevent unnecessary water loss and lower your bill.

Government and Regulatory Role

OFWAT Regulations
OFWAT regulates water and wastewater services in England and Wales, ensuring fair pricing and adequate service standards. Their regulations aim to protect consumers while enabling water companies to maintain and improve infrastructure.

Water Supplier Responsibilities
Water suppliers are responsible for delivering clean water to homes and removing wastewater. They must adhere to regulatory standards and provide transparent billing and efficient customer service.

Regional Water Suppliers and Their Rates

Thames Water
Thames Water is the largest water supplier in the UK, serving London and surrounding areas. Their rates are among the highest in the country due to the region’s dense population and infrastructure costs.

Severn Trent Water
Severn Trent Water serves the Midlands and parts of Wales. Their rates are generally lower than Thames Water, reflecting regional cost differences.

United Utilities
Serving the North West of England, United Utilities offers competitive rates and has invested heavily in infrastructure improvements to ensure reliable service.

Others
Other notable suppliers include Anglian Water, Yorkshire Water, and Southern Water, each with varying rates influenced by regional factors.

How to Read Your Water Bill

Key Sections to Check
Understanding your water bill can help you manage and reduce costs. Key sections include the meter reading (for metered properties), the rateable value (for unmetered properties), and detailed charges for water supply and wastewater services.

Understanding Charges and Usage
Reviewing the charges and usage details on your bill can help identify patterns and areas for potential savings. Look for high usage periods and consider ways to reduce consumption during those times.

Dealing with High Water Bills

Identifying Causes
High water bills can be due to increased usage, leaks, or billing errors. Identifying the cause is the first step in addressing the issue. Check for leaks, review your usage habits, and contact your water supplier if you suspect an error.

Negotiating with Your Supplier
If you encounter persistent high bills, discussing your situation with your water supplier can sometimes result in adjustments or payment plans. Suppliers may offer assistance programs for customers facing financial difficulties.

Water Meter Installation Benefits

Cost Savings
Installing a water meter can lead to significant cost savings, especially for smaller households. By paying for actual usage rather than a fixed rate, you can better control your water expenses.

Accurate Billing
Meters provide accurate measurements of water usage, ensuring you only pay for what you use. This transparency can help identify usage patterns and opportunities for conservation.

Assistance Programs for Low-Income Households

WaterSure Scheme
The WaterSure scheme helps low-income households with high essential water use by capping their bills. Eligibility is based on receiving certain benefits and having a medical condition that requires significant water use or having a large family.

Local Assistance Programs
Many water suppliers offer local assistance programs to help customers manage their bills. These programs may include payment plans, discounts, or grants for essential repairs.

Impact of Climate Change on Water Bills

Increased Demand
Climate change can lead to increased water demand during hotter and drier periods. This increased demand can strain supplies and infrastructure, potentially leading to higher bills.

Infrastructure Costs
Adapting infrastructure to cope with climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events and rising temperatures, can result in increased costs for water suppliers. These costs may be passed on to consumers through higher bills.

Future Trends in Water Billing

Smart Meters
Smart meters are becoming more common, providing real-time data on water usage. This technology can help households better manage their consumption and detect leaks early, leading to more efficient water use and lower bills.

Changing Regulations
Regulatory changes aimed at improving water efficiency and sustainability are likely to influence future billing practices. Staying informed about these changes can help you adapt and manage your water costs effectively.

FAQs

What is in the Average Water Bill in UK in a 1-Bed Flat? 

In a 1 bed flat, you can expect to pay somewhere around £35 a month for average use. 

How Can I Save Money on Water? 

Try shortening your shower time or filling a bowl with water for your dishes rather than running constant water. 

Can I Qualify for a Sewerage Rebate?

This will be up to your water company but you may be able to qualify