As water companies announce water bills for next year, showing an
average increase of 7.5%, or £31, Ofwat has called on companies
to go the extra mile in supporting customers in need of a helping
hand.
Similar to previous years, the average water bill is increasing
by less than the level of inflation, although there is variation
between water companies across England and Wales. However,
companies need to make sure support is clear and accessible and
show customers how they are delivering on the things that matter
most – including on affordability and environmental concerns.
As highlighted last week,
Ofwat has welcomed the efforts of companies to ease cost of
living pressures but called on some to take further action on
funding for social tariffs and increasing access and awareness of
support.
Alongside this, concerns about investment and
performance need to be
addressed if water companies are to regain the trust of their
customers. Action from companies needs to be clearly set out for
all customers to see.
Ofwat Chief Executive, , said:
"We know times are tough and customers who are already struggling
will be worried if they see their water bill increase, so
companies should be doubling down to support those who need a
helping hand. Kind words don't mean anything unless they are
backed up by action, which is why we were pleased to see the
recent increase in support."
Water bills are affected by a number of factors including
inflation, population changes, previous deferrals and yearly
performance targets. In particular, average bills are calculated
using assumptions about how much water customers will use in the
following year. Ofwat announced last
November that the majority of companies would charge
customers less than they would have otherwise because of missed
targets.
Customers who are worried about their bill should visit Ofwat’s
cost of living page
for four tips to follow.
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Notes to editors
