Water bills to rise by up to £36 a year – find out how much yours is increasing

WATER bills are to rise by up to £36 a year in another blow to households struggling due to the cost of living crisis. 

Bills will go up by 1.7% or £7 a year on average, WaterUK said and also cover the cost of sewerage.

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But some parts of the UK will see above inflation rises, including Essex and Suffolk where the average bill is going up from £223 to £246 a year. 

Ofwat, the water regulator, called on firms to provide support for customers who were struggling to pay.

David Black, Ofwat’s interim chief executive, said: “Many households are worried about their bills, and we expect water companies to play their part in supporting customers.

“Our research shows that only 15% of customers know about the financial help available to them, and just 3% are actually getting financial support from their water company.”

WaterUK said that around 1 million households are now getting help with their water bills and that’s expected to rise to at least 1.4million by 2025.

The estimates for the bill rise are based on data provided by water companies and average bills.

Each area has one water company which sets bills and rises and unfortunately you can’t switch to another one like you can with other utilities.

The exact amount your bill will rise will depend on where you live, how much you’re charged and the rate it’s increasing.

Ofwat said that in England and Wales some customers’ bills will reduce by 6% while others will increase by an inflation busting 10%. 

Inflation is currently just over 5% and at a 30-year high, but could hit 7% in April the Bank of England said yesterday.

The exact cost of your water bill can also depend on each household, for example if you have a water meter or not.

But Ofwat which regulates the water industry sets rules for bill rises and they must be fair and provide value for money.

Christine McGourty, the chief executive of Water UK said: “Customers will continue to pay little more than £1 a day for their water and sewerage service, helping to directly fund significant investment in improving infrastructure and enhancing the environment.

“But we know this a difficult time for many, and no-one should have to worry about their household essentials.

“There is a wide range of support available for those in need, and I would urge anyone who’s concerned to get in touch with their water company.

This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk