Water bills to go up in April
Just as consumers in the UK are starting to look forward to making some savings on the cost of their gas and electricity, with four major UK energy suppliers already announcing price cuts starting in March and April, they have been hit with a blow from the water industry. According to reports, water bills are expected to rise by an average of seven percent from the beginning of April according to industry experts, reflecting a rise of 3.9 percent for inflation plus an additional 3.1 percent rise.
The actual amount of the rise will depend upon the area, the water supplier, and whether the customer has a water meter or not. It is thought that the rise will see average bills go up by around twenty pounds for the year. In a statement, OFWAT, the water regulatory board, stated: "This comprises an increase of 3.1 percent in real terms, plus 3.9 percent for inflation. The average household water and sewerage bill for 2007-08 will increase by around 20 pounds to 312 pounds."
The Chief Executive of OFWAT also added: "These increases are essential to ensure that customers continue to receive high quality, secure water and sewerage services both now and in the future."
Although consumers do not have the same choice with their water supplier as they do with other suppliers, many may be able to save a fortune by having a water meter installed in their homes, which enables the consumer to pay more realistic prices based upon the amount of water used. This could be particularly useful for single people or couples that live in a larger property, where they are being charged higher rates but not using that much water. A water meter can be fitted for free, and consumers should contact their local water board to enquire about this.
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