Why is my water bill so high? Expert advice on how to reduce your water costs

With water bills rising across the UK, many households are looking for simple, practical ways to cut costs without compromising on daily life. From switching to a water meter and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, to choosing efficient appliances and even collecting rainwater, there are plenty of strategies that can make a noticeable difference to your bill. In this article, Liz Hunter, Commercial Director at Money Expert, shares smart, money-saving tips to help you reduce your water usage, lower your monthly expenses, and find out what financial support might be available if you’re struggling to keep up with payments.

Consider moving to a meter 

There are two ways to pay your water bill; By paying an estimated ‘unmetered charge’, based on your home’s size and/or value. Or by meter, which is based on your usage. Most new homes have a water meter installed. If you don’t have a meter, and paying an estimated bill, getting one could save you money if:

• Your property value is high, but water usage low
• You have fewer occupants than bedrooms
• You live alone

This is because you could be paying for more water than you actually use.

However, if you’re a large household and use more water than average, you’re better off staying on an estimated charge, as a water meter could lead to higher bills. If you’re unsure, use the Consumer Council for Water’s calculator to see if you’d save money by switching.

Turn off the tap whilst brushing your teeth

Turning off the tap whilst brushing your teeth can save approximately six litres of water per minute, according to WaterWise UK. So if you brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes, you’ll save a whopping 8544 litres of water per year.

If you have a meter and save this amount of water per year, you’d knock around £16 off your annual water bill, based on the average UK water price of £1.90 per cubic meter. If a family of four all did the same thing, you’d cut around £50 off your water bill – and the saving is likely to increase in 2025.

Choose water-efficient appliances

When you’re next due to replace your washing machine, dishwasher or toilet, choose water-efficient models, if you can. These are specifically designed to use less water compared to traditional models.

When shopping, look for the WEL label (Water Efficiency Label). This will show a rating of between A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) based on the appliance’s water consumption. Aim for higher ratings (A+, A++, or A+++) for the biggest savings.

Collect rainwater

We get plenty of rain in the UK, and it could benefit your water bills if you’re willing to harvest it.
Simply place a bucket, barrel or water butt directly under your downpipe. Rain will flow through the gutters and downpipes and fill your container automatically. The water you collect is perfect for watering plants in the summer or washing your car, which can help to lower your bill as you won’t need to turn on the hose.

If you want to collect filtered water that can be used for showering and the like, you’ll need to install a harvesting system with filters and pumps. While there are upfront costs involved, the savings on your water bill over time can be substantial.

Check if you’re eligible for financial assistance

It’s also worth checking if you’re eligible for financial support:

• Social tariffs: Discounted water bills are offered by water companies to help low-income households. Schemes differ in terms of who is eligible for help and what assistance is provided. However, they’re generally available to those that have a household income of less than £17,005 excluding benefits, or £21,749 if you live in a London Borough. You can find a list of all the social tariffs available, as well as how to apply, here.
   
• WaterSure: A scheme for customers with a water meter who use lots of water, but struggle to afford it, is also available. If you meet at least three of the following criteria – you use a water meter, are in receipt of benefits, receive child benefit for three or more children, have a medical condition or live with someone who does – you could be eligible. To apply, you’ll need to contact your water company and fill out a form.
   
• Financial hardship funds: Many water companies offer financial hardship funds to assist their customers who’re struggling to pay their water bill. These funds can be used to help clear your debt. To apply for these, you’ll need to contact your water company.

How to seek help if you’re struggling to pay

If you’re struggling to pay your water bills, it’s worth getting in touch with your supplier. In most cases, they’ll be able to spread your payments over a longer period through a payment plan, to make things more manageable for you. In rare cases – and depending on your circumstances – it might be possible to have the debt written off.

If you’re unsure how to approach the situation, you can contact Citizens Advice for advice. If you're unhappy with how your water company has dealt with your financial hardship, you can also ask the Consumer Council for Water to investigate your behalf.