How to cut your water bill
You can't switch supplier, but you can still pay less. Every option explained.
The average water bill is rising to around £603 per year in 2025/26. You can't switch supplier, but you can cut costs by getting a meter (saves most small households £100+ per year), claiming social tariffs if on benefits, checking for leaks, and applying for the WaterSure cap if you have a medical condition or large family.
Water is the one utility you're stuck with. No switching, no comparison sites, no deals. Your water company is whoever serves your postcode. But that doesn't mean you can't pay less.
Get a Water Meter
This is the single biggest saving for most households. If there are fewer people in your home than bedrooms, a meter almost certainly saves money.
| Household | Typical Saving With Meter |
|---|---|
| 1 person | £100-£200 per year |
| 2 people | £50-£150 per year |
| 3 people | £0-£50 per year |
| 4+ people | May cost more |
The process: Request a meter from your water company (it's free). They install it within a few months. You get a 12-month trial period. If it costs more, you can switch back within the first year.
Rule of thumb: Fewer people than bedrooms = meter saves money.
Social Tariffs (Low Income)
Every water company offers reduced rates for customers on low incomes. These aren't widely advertised:
| Company | Scheme Name | Typical Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Thames Water | WaterHelp | Up to 50% off |
| Severn Trent | Big Difference Scheme | Up to 90% off |
| United Utilities | Help to Pay | Up to 80% off |
| Anglian Water | LITE | Capped bill |
| Yorkshire Water | WaterSupport | Reduced bill |
| Southern Water | Essentials | Reduced bill |
Who qualifies: Generally households with income below £16,000-£20,000. Some require means-tested benefits; others just assess income.
Take-up is low. Most eligible people don't claim. If you're struggling with water bills, check your company's website.
WaterSure (Capped Bills)
WaterSure caps your metered bill at the average for your area. You qualify if you have a meter AND a medical condition requiring extra water use or three or more children under 19 at home, AND you or your partner receive a qualifying benefit.
Apply through your water company. You'll need a doctor's letter for medical conditions.
Check for Leaks
A leak between the meter and your home means you're paying for water you never use. Signs include: bill suddenly much higher, meter spinning when no water is being used, damp patches in the garden, sound of running water when taps are off.
How to check: Turn off all water in the house. Read the meter. Wait 30 minutes. Read it again. If it's moved, you have a leak.
Your water company is responsible for the supply pipe up to the boundary of your property. Many companies offer free or subsidised leak repairs, and most will reduce your bill if a leak inflated it.
Free Water-Saving Devices
| Device | What It Does | Saving |
|---|---|---|
| Shower timer | Encourages shorter showers | £20-£40 per year |
| Tap aerators | Reduce flow without losing pressure | £10-£20 per year |
| Cistern displacement device | Uses less water per flush | £5-£10 per year |
| Garden water butt | Collects rainwater for garden use | Varies |
Order from your water company's website. Usually completely free including delivery.
Surface Water Drainage Rebate
Part of your bill pays for rainwater drainage from your property into the public sewer. If your property handles all its own rainwater (soakaway, water butt, permeable driveway), you may qualify for a reduction of £20-£60 per year.
Payment Plans
If you can't pay, water companies must offer help. Unlike energy, they legally cannot disconnect your water supply for non-payment. Options include payment plans, matching payments, write-off of debt in hardship cases, and breathing space. Contact your company before you fall behind.
Quick Summary
| Action | Who Benefits | Typical Saving |
|---|---|---|
| Get a meter | Small households (1-2 people) | £100-£200 per year |
| Social tariff | Low income households | 50-90% off bill |
| WaterSure cap | Medical conditions / large families on benefits | Varies (can be hundreds) |
| Fix leaks | Anyone with a leak | Stops wasted spend |
| Free devices | Metered customers especially | £30-£60 per year |
| Surface water rebate | Properties with own drainage | £20-£60 per year |
Start with the meter and social tariff checks. Those are where the real money is.