Water Utility Companies in the UK: A Detailed Overview
Choosing Your Water Provider in the UK: A How-To Guide
Introduction: Welcome to the water utility companies page, where we give you a list of water companies, the psotcode areas they cover, there contact details, some useful information and a list of common questions relating to these companies, hoping to assist you best.
How do I find which water company I am with?
Just below is a list of water companies and the postcode areas they cover, and if your postcode fulls underneath these companies, there is a good chance that this is the company providing you with water:
- Thames Water: 0800 316 9800
- RG - Reading, Bracknell, Newbury, Hungerford, Thatcham
- SL - Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, Marlow, Gerrards Cross
- SW - Wandsworth, Chelsea, Fulham, Battersea, Putney
- W - Paddington, Acton, Chiswick, Ealing, Hammersmith
- UB - Uxbridge, Hayes, West Drayton, Northolt
- HA - Harrow, Wembley, Stanmore, Edgware
- HP - Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Aylesbury
- AL - St Albans, Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City
- EN - Enfield, Barnet, Potters Bar
- IG - Ilford, Chigwell, Woodford Green
- RM - Romford, Dagenham, Hornchurch
- DA - Dartford, Bexley, Erith
- BR - Bromley, Beckenham, Orpington
- CR - Croydon, Mitcham, Coulsdon
- KT - Kingston upon Thames, Epsom, Surbiton
- TW - Twickenham, Richmond, Teddington
- GU - Guildford, Woking, Aldershot
- RH - Redhill, Crawley, Horsham
- SM - Sutton, Morden, Carshalton
- WD - Watford, Rickmansworth, Kings Langley
- OX - Oxford, Banbury, Abingdon
- Severn Trent Water: 03457 500 500
- B - Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Harborne, Edgbaston
- CV - Coventry, Nuneaton, Rugby, Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon
- ST - Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Leek, Stone
- WR - Worcester, Droitwich, Evesham, Malvern, Pershore
- DY - Dudley, Kidderminster, Stourbridge
- WS - Walsall, Cannock, Lichfield
- WV - Wolverhampton, Telford, Bridgnorth
- NN - Northampton, Corby, Kettering
- DE - Derby, Burton upon Trent, Matlock
- NG - Nottingham, Newark, Mansfield
- S - Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley
- LE - Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley
- TF - Telford, Market Drayton, Newport
- SY - Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Oswestry
- GL - Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud
- HR - Hereford, Leominster, Ross-on-Wye
- LD - Llandrindod Wells, Brecon, Builth Wells
- United Utilities: 03457 500 500
- L - Liverpool, Bootle, Prescot, Ormskirk, Maghull
- M - Manchester, Salford, Sale, Stretford, Didsbury
- PR - Preston, Southport, Leyland, Chorley, Ormskirk
- BL - Bolton, Bury, Blackburn
- WN - Wigan, Leigh, Skelmersdale
- WA - Warrington, Runcorn, Widnes
- OL - Oldham, Rochdale, Ashton-under-Lyne
- SK - Stockport, Buxton, Macclesfield
- CW - Crewe, Nantwich, Northwich
- CH - Chester, Wirral, Ellesmere Port
- CA - Carlisle, Whitehaven, Workington (Note: Only parts close to the North West of England)
- FY - Blackpool, Fleetwood, Lytham St Annes
- BB - Blackburn, Burnley, Accrington
- LA - Lancaster, Morecambe, Kendal
- Anglian Water: 03457 500 500
- NR - Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Wymondham
- PE - Peterborough, Boston, King's Lynn, Stamford, Spalding
- LE - Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, Melton Mowbray, Coalville
- CB - Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Saffron Walden, Haverhill
- CO - Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, Braintree, Harwich
- IP - Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Stowmarket
- NN - Northampton, Daventry, Wellingborough, Kettering
- MK - Milton Keynes, Buckingham, Newport Pagnell
- SG - Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth Garden City, Baldock
- CM - Chelmsford, Brentwood, Braintree, Harlow
- LN - Lincoln, Horncastle, Louth, Market Rasen
- NG - Nottingham, Newark, Mansfield, Grantham
- Northumbrian Water: 0345 717 1100
- NE - Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Morpeth, Hexham
- DH - Durham, Chester-le-Street, Houghton-le-Spring, Consett
- DL - Darlington, Richmond, Barnard Castle, Bishop Auckland
- TS - Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees, Redcar, Hartlepool
- SR - Sunderland, Seaham, Peterlee
- TD - Berwick-upon-Tweed, Galashiels, Melrose (partially)
- Yorkshire Water: 0345 124 2424
- LS - Leeds, Headingley, Morley, Pudsey, Otley
- BD - Bradford, Keighley, Shipley, Bingley, Ilkley
- HU - Hull, Beverley, Cottingham, Hessle, Hornsea
- YO - York, Scarborough, Bridlington, Malton, Whitby
- DN - Doncaster, Scunthorpe, Goole, Retford
- HD - Huddersfield, Holmfirth, Brighouse
- HG - Harrogate, Ripon, Knaresborough
- HX - Halifax, Elland, Hebden Bridge, Sowerby Bridge
- S - Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley, Chesterfield
- WF - Wakefield, Pontefract, Castleford, Knottingley
- LN - Lincoln, Market Rasen (partially covered)
- NG - Nottingham areas like Newark (partially covered)
- Welsh Water (Dwr Cymru): 0800 052 0130
- CF - Cardiff, Barry, Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, Pontypridd
- LL - Llandudno, Bangor, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llangollen
- SA - Swansea, Llanelli, Carmarthen, Haverfordwest, Pembroke
- LD - Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells, Knighton, Presteigne
- NP - Newport, Cwmbran, Abergavenny, Chepstow, Monmouth
- HR - Hereford, Ross-on-Wye, Leominster, Ledbury
- SY - Shrewsbury, Welshpool, Newtown (partially Welsh Water)
- CH - Chester, Deeside, Flint, Mold (partially Welsh Water)
- WR - Worcester areas closer to the Welsh border
- GL - Gloucester areas closer to the Welsh border
- South West Water: 0344 346 2020
- EX - Exeter, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Sidmouth, Exmouth
- PL - Plymouth, Saltash, Liskeard, Tavistock, Launceston
- TR - Truro, Falmouth, Penzance, Newquay, St Ives
- TQ - Torquay, Newton Abbot, Paignton, Brixham, Dartmouth
- TA - Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Minehead, Wellington
- DT - Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, Lyme Regis, Sherborne
- Scottish Water: 0800 077 8778
- EH - Edinburgh, Livingston, Bathgate, Musselburgh, North Berwick
- G - Glasgow, Clydebank, Bearsden, Milngavie, Kirkintilloch
- AB - Aberdeen, Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Inverurie, Stonehaven
- FK - Falkirk, Stirling, Alloa, Grangemouth, Larbert
- IV - Inverness, Fort William, Dingwall, Ullapool
- PH - Perth, Dundee, Pitlochry, Oban
- PA - Paisley, Greenock, Campbeltown, Rothesay
- KY - Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Dunfermline, St Andrews
- DD - Dundee, Arbroath, Forfar, Montrose
- KW - Kirkwall, Thurso, Wick
- KA - Kilmarnock, Ayr, Troon, Irvine
- ML - Motherwell, Hamilton, East Kilbride, Lanark
- DG - Dumfries, Stranraer, Annan, Langholm
- TD - Galashiels, Hawick, Jedburgh, Kelso
- Southern Water: 0330 303 0368
- BN - Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Lewes, Worthing
- PO - Portsmouth, Gosport, Fareham, Havant, Isle of Wight
- SO - Southampton, Winchester, Eastleigh, Romsey, New Forest
- ME - Medway, Rochester, Maidstone, Sittingbourne, Gillingham
- RG - Reading, Basingstoke, Newbury (partially covered)
- GU - Guildford, Farnborough, Aldershot (partially covered)
- RH - Redhill, Crawley, Horsham
- CT - Canterbury, Dover, Margate, Folkestone
- TN - Tunbridge Wells, Hastings, Tonbridge (partially covered)
- DA - Dartford, Gravesend (partially covered)
- Wessex Water: 0330 303 0368
- BA - Bath, Frome, Shepton Mallet, Warminster, Wells
- BS - Bristol, Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, Portishead, Nailsea
- DT - Dorchester, Bridport, Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Sherborne
- TA - Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Minehead, Burnham-on-Sea
- BH - Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Ferndown, Wimborne
- SN - Swindon, Marlborough, Devizes, Chippenham
- SP - Salisbury, Andover, Amesbury, Shaftesbury
- GL - Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud (partially covered)
- WR - Worcester, Evesham, Malvern (partially covered)
- EX - North and East Devon areas like Tiverton and Honiton (partially covered)
- South East Water: 0333 000 0001
- BN - Brighton, Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Worthing
- ME - Medway, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Rainham
- RH - Redhill, Reigate, Crawley, Horsham, Dorking
- TN - Tonbridge, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Hastings, Rye, Bexhill
- CT - Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone, Margate
- DA - Dartford, Bexley, Sidcup, Welling
- BR - Bromley, Beckenham, Orpington, Chislehurst
- CR - Croydon, South Croydon, Caterham
- KT - Kingston upon Thames, Epsom, Leatherhead, New Malden
- SM - Sutton, Morden, Carshalton
- Portsmouth Water: 023 9249 9888
- PO - Portsmouth, Gosport, Fareham, Havant, Waterlooville, Chichester, Bognor Regis (Isle of Wight only partially covered by Portsmouth Water)
- SO - Southampton areas like Hedge End, Eastleigh (parts of SO postcode may fall under Portsmouth Water)
- GU - Parts of GU postcode around the border areas with Hampshire such as Petersfield may be covered by Portsmouth Water
- Bristol Water: 0345 600 3600
- BS - Bristol, Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, Portishead, Nailsea
- BA - Bath, Frome, Shepton Mallet, Warminster, Wells
- TA - Taunton (Only specific parts may be covered by Bristol Water, particularly those closer to the Bristol region)
- GL - Gloucester (Only specific parts may be covered by Bristol Water, particularly those closer to the Bristol area)
- Affinity Water: 0345 357 2407
- AL - St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield
- EN - Enfield, Barnet, Broxbourne, Potters Bar
- WD - Watford, Rickmansworth, Kings Langley, Borehamwood
- SG - Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth Garden City, Baldock
- HP - Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Amersham, Chesham
- LU - Luton, Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard
- MK - Milton Keynes, Bletchley, Newport Pagnell
- CM - Chelmsford, Brentwood, Harlow, Bishop's Stortford
- CB - Cambridge, Newmarket, Saffron Walden
- IP - Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds (only specific areas covered)
- Essex & Suffolk Water: 0345 782 0999
- CO - Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, Harwich, Braintree
- IP - Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Stowmarket
- SS - Southend-on-Sea, Basildon, Rayleigh, Canvey Island
- CM - Chelmsford, Brentwood, Braintree, Billericay, Harlow
- NR - Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Wymondham (partially covered)
- RM - Romford, Dagenham (partially covered)
- IG - Ilford, Chigwell (partially covered)
- E - East London areas like East Ham, Stratford (partially covered)
- EN - Enfield, Barnet (partially covered)
- Cholderton and District Water: 01980 629203
- SP4 - Salisbury Plain area, Amesbury, Larkhill, Bulford
- Bournemouth Water: 01202 590059
- BH - Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Wimborne Minster, Ringwood
- DT - Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, Lyme Regis, Sturminster Newton
- SP - Salisbury, Andover, Tidworth, Shaftesbury, Warminster
- SO - Parts of Southampton and surrounding areas, specifically those closer to the New Forest and western side (Only specific parts may be covered by Bournemouth Water)
- Cambrian Water (Previously Dee Valley Water): 0800 085 8033
- Hafren Dyfrdwy (previously part of Severn Trent): 0800 085 8033
- SES Water (previously Sutton and East Surrey Water): 01737 772000
- RH - Redhill, Crawley, Horsham, Reigate, Dorking
- KT - Kingston upon Thames, Epsom, Surbiton, New Malden, Chessington
- SM - Sutton, Cheam, Carshalton, Wallington
- CR - Croydon, South Croydon, Caterham
- BR - Bromley, Beckenham, Orpington, Chislehurst
- TN - Parts of Tunbridge Wells (specifically western parts like Edenbridge)
- DA - Parts of Dartford (border areas closer to Surrey and Kent)
- South Staffs Water: 0800 389 1011
- DY - Dudley, Kidderminster, Stourbridge, Halesowen, Bewdley
- WS - Walsall, Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley, Burntwood
- WV - Wolverhampton, Telford, Bridgnorth, Willenhall, Bilston
- ST - Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Leek, Stone
- B - Birmingham (specific parts, particularly the suburban and surrounding areas)
- TF - Telford (partially covered, mainly areas closer to Wolverhampton)
- WR - Worcester (only specific areas, especially northern parts)
- DE - Derby (mainly Burton upon Trent and surrounding areas)
Understanding Your Water Bill: Charges and Savings
Water bills in the UK can often seem complex, but breaking them down can help you understand where your money goes and how you might reduce your costs. Most water bills consist of two main components: a charge for water supply and a charge for wastewater services. Here’s how to make sense of your bill and identify potential savings:
- Fixed vs. Variable Charges: Understand the difference between fixed charges, which remain the same regardless of how much water you use, and variable charges, which are based on your actual water consumption. Knowing this can help you control costs by reducing usage.
- Metered vs. Unmetered Bills: If your home is equipped with a water meter, your bill is based on the actual amount of water you use. If you don't have a meter, your bill is likely assessed using the rateable value of your property. Comparing these can determine if switching to a metered supply could save you money.
- Understanding Rateable Value: For homes without a water meter, the rateable value, an assessment of your property's value, impacts your bill. While new assessments are no longer conducted, understanding how this historical figure affects your charges can provide context for your costs.
- Ways to Save: Reducing water usage can lead to significant savings, especially for metered customers. Simple measures, such as fixing leaks, installing water-efficient devices, and using less water for daily tasks, can decrease your bill.
- WaterSure and Social Tariffs: If you have a low income or a large family, you might be eligible for capped bills through schemes like WaterSure or social tariffs offered by your water company.
- Checking for Errors: Regularly check your bill for any unexpected charges or sudden increases in usage, which could indicate leaks requiring an emergency plumber or billing errors.
Additionally, contact your water provider if you have questions about your bill or need clarification on charges. They can provide detailed explanations and might offer advice on reducing your consumption. Many providers also offer free water-saving kits and audits, which can help you identify practical ways to save water and money.
Finally, consider whether switching to a water meter makes sense for your household. While not everyone will save money by switching, those who use less water than average for their area and property size often benefit financially. You usually have a trial period during which you can switch back if you find it’s not for you.
Reporting Water Leaks and Service Issues in the UK
Water leaks and service issues not only waste precious resources but can also lead to higher water bills and potential property damage. In the UK, it’s important to report these issues promptly to your water utility company to ensure they are addressed swiftly. Here's how you can report leaks and other service issues effectively:
- Identifying Leaks: Learn to identify signs of leaks in your property, such as unexpectedly high water bills, damp patches, or the sound of running water when all taps are off. Early detection can prevent further damage and costs.
- Contacting Your Water Provider: Each water company has specific procedures for reporting leaks. Find the emergency contact number or online reporting tool on your latest water bill or on the company’s website. Many companies offer 24/7 services for reporting leaks or urgent issues.
- Location Details: When reporting a leak, be as specific as possible about its location, whether it's inside your home, on the street, or elsewhere. If the issue is outside your property boundary, it’s usually the responsibility of the water company to fix.
- Use of Technology: Some water companies allow customers to report leaks via mobile apps or online platforms, providing a quick and easy way to communicate issues directly to the utility provider.
- Regular Updates: Once reported, keep track of the progress on the repair. If the issue is not addressed within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with the company. Persistent issues should be escalated as needed.
- Preventive Measures: Understand what preventive measures you can take to avoid future leaks and service issues. Your water provider may offer tips and services to help you maintain your plumbing and fixtures.
Additionally, be aware of your water company's responsibility in maintaining their infrastructure and your rights as a consumer. If a leak on their side is causing an increase in your bill, you may be eligible for a leak allowance once the issue is fixed. Reporting water leaks not only helps you avoid unnecessary charges but also contributes to water conservation efforts, ensuring that clean water is available for all.
FAQs: Common Queries About UK Water Services Answered
Get answers to frequently asked questions about water services in the UK, including billing, maintenance, and emergency procedures.
- How can I reduce my water bill?
Consider installing water-saving devices, fixing leaks promptly, and using water more efficiently. Contact your water provider about assessments or programs designed to help reduce consumption.
- What should I do if I have no water?
First, check with neighbors to see if the issue is widespread. Then, check your water provider’s website or contact them directly to report the issue and get updates.
- Can I switch my water supplier?
In the UK, most residential customers cannot switch water suppliers as services are regional. However, businesses can choose their water and wastewater retailer.
- What is a water meter and should I get one?
A water meter measures your actual water usage, potentially saving money if your consumption is low. You can request a meter from your water company, usually free of charge.
- How do I report a leak?
Report leaks to your water company as soon as possible. Contact information can be found on their website or your water bill. Immediate reporting helps prevent water waste and additional charges.
- What is the difference between a Water Only Company (WoC) and a Water and Sewerage Company (WaSC)?
WoCs provide only water services, while WaSCs provide both water and wastewater services. Your location determines which type of company supplies your services.
- How are water rates determined?
Rates can be based on property rateable values or actual water usage if you have a meter. Rates are set to cover the cost of providing water and wastewater services.
- What are my rights if my water supply is interrupted?
You may be entitled to compensation if the interruption exceeds a certain time frame. Check your water company's policy and the regulations set by the industry regulator, Ofwat.
- How can I check the quality of my drinking water?
Your water provider must ensure your water meets legal standards. Annual water quality reports are available on their website, or you can contact them directly for specific inquiries.
- Who is responsible for maintaining the pipes in and around my property?
You are usually responsible for the maintenance of pipes within your property boundary. Outside of this, the responsibility typically falls to the water company.
