Brits cutting back on water use to save money

Millions of Brits are trying to use less water to ease pressure on household budgets.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has found that in the last month, more than four in five adults (84%) have cut back on how much water they use.

Among the small steps they’re taking are:

• not leaving the tap running - 64%
• waiting until the washing machine or dishwasher is full before putting it on - 55%
• taking shorter showers - 40%
• using less tap water, including hosepipes, in the garden - 36%

On their own, these actions might not lead to big savings straight away.

But even just a few changes in how you use water can make a difference and save you money in the long run.

For more money-saving tips, read our list of 10 ways to save water in the home.

Who’s cutting back on their water consumption?

Cutting back on water use is more common among women, with 91% saying they had reduced their water consumption.

That compares with just 76% of men.

Older adults are also more likely to be trying to use less water. 

Figures show that nine in ten (90%) people aged 70 and over have cut back, compared with 81% of 16 to 29-year-olds.

What can I do if I’m struggling with water bills?

If you’re finding it hard to keep up with your water bills, contact your water company as soon as possible, ideally before you miss a payment rather than afterwards.

Every water company runs a social tariff, which is a cheaper bill for customers on a low income. 

Almost two million households were on one last year and their bills came down by an average of £190. 

Each company sets its own rules about who qualifies, so ask yours for more information.

There's also WaterSure, which caps your bill at the average for your area if you're on a meter, claim certain benefits, and either have a large family or a medical condition that means you use more water, such as kidney disease or a skin condition that needs frequent washing. 

In addition, lots of water companies offer payment breaks, and some run matching schemes where they take a pound off your debt for every pound you pay.

Get debt advice

If you’re behind on your water bills, there’s a good chance you’re struggling to keep up with other bills too. 

In that case, it really helps to look at everything together rather than tackling one debt at a time. 

We can go through your income and outgoings with you, check if you're missing out on any benefits or support you're entitled to, and talk you through the options for dealing with what you owe. 

Speak to us and we'll work out where you stand.

Can your water be cut off?

No, water companies in England and Wales aren't allowed to disconnect a household's supply over an unpaid bill.

But the debt doesn't go away on its own. 

Your water company can pass the account to a debt collection agency, and it can take you to court. 

If a judge orders you to pay and you don't, that goes on your credit record and stays there for six years, which can make it harder to get a mortgage, a phone contract or a loan.

Find out more about what to do about water arrears here.