Thames Water has confirmed that it will not reduce customer bills as a result of introducing a hosepipe ban. Hosepipe bans are currently in place in large parts of England and Wales after long periods of extreme heat. Watering gardens or filling paddling pools using a hosepipe is banned unless exempt, such as for Blue Badge holders and people with certain health conditions and disabilities.
Thames Water statement on ban
Thames Water said: "We’ve had a very dry spring and record-breaking hot weather in May, June and July. This has meant people have been using more water than normal. A hosepipe ban is put in place to help preserve water and ensure there’s enough water to go around."
Why bills won't be reduced
Thames Water explained that unmetered customers don’t have charges related to the use of hosepipes. "So, there are no charges made in respect of prohibited uses that would reasonably need to be reduced. This is in line with the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and section 76(6) of the Water Industry Act 1991." For metered customers, they pay for the water they use. "As a hosepipe won’t have been used during restrictions, no charges will have been applied. No charge reductions would be applicable to metered customers."
Anglian Water and billing differences
Anglian Water also confirmed that customers without a meter "won't see a change to their charges". However, "If you're on a water meter, using less water could reduce your bill because you'll only pay for the water you use". People in England and Wales either pay a fixed rate or based on water use measured with a meter. Those without a meter pay an unmeasured charge, which won't be reduced because of the hosepipe ban.
Citizens' Advice explained that the unmeasured charge "is often made up of a standing charge and a charge that varies". Water bills are based on a property's flat rate charge, assessed Volume Charge and rateable value. "Some water companies will charge a flat rate for everyone, wherever they live and whatever property they live in. Assessed Volume Charge is usually based on the size and type of the property or the number of occupants. It can sometimes be offered instead of a meter, if you've asked for one and it's not possible to fit one at your property."
