Water Bills to Soar by 7.5%—Biggest Hike in Two Decades
From April, expect your water bills to hit the biggest rise in nearly 20 years. A sharp 7.5% increase means an average household in England and Wales will pay around £31 more a year.
Average Bill Tops £448, Some Face £500+ Price Tag
Water UK reveals the average water and sewerage bill is jumping from £417 last year to £448. But beware—depending on your region, some households will shell out over £500 annually.
Consumer Groups Warn of Crisis as Struggling Families Face Higher Costs
Pressure mounts on the one in five customers already struggling to pay their bills.
Emma Clancy, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), blasted the increase: “Water is essential for all of us, so no one should be worried about affording their bill.”
“These hikes add uncertainty for those already battling bills during tough times. Low-income households need immediate relief and consistent support—not a postcode lottery. We urgently need a new water affordability scheme.”
Water UK Defends Hike, Pledges £200 Million Aid
Water UK insists bills today are still lower in real terms than a decade ago. They blame rising energy costs—water firms use about 2% of the nation’s electricity.
Stuart Colville, Water UK’s director of policy, said: “The average increase is around 60p a week, a below-inflation rise. We know any increase is unwelcome, especially now.”
“That’s why companies are injecting an extra £200 million to help those struggling. If you’re worried, contact your water company or visit supportontap.org. Water companies will never cut off supply or force a prepayment meter.”
“Next year’s bills will fund record investment—£70 billion planned to build new reservoirs and stop river overflows.”
