Money Wellness

bills

Published 04 Jun 2025

6 min read

Worried about rising water bills? Here’s what you can do

There have been reports this week that bills for Thames Water customers could be increased, after a planned rescue package fell through.  

Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead - Money Wellness

Written by: Gabrielle Pickard Whitehead

Lead financial content writer

Published: 4 June 2025

If you're a Thames Water customer this might be worrying but there is help available for people who are struggling to pay their water bills.  

If you're worried about rising costs, you're not alone. 

Nearly a quarter of the people we’ve supported with debt advice over the last year have fallen behind on payments to their water company.  

Here’s how to get support: 

Speak to your provider 

If you're struggling, contact your supplier as soon as possible. Water companies have measures in place for people who are finding it hard to keep up with their bills. 

WaterSure 

WaterSure helps people with high water usage by capping their bills at the average for their area. 

It’s aimed at households with three or more children under 19, or those who use higher than average amounts of water because of certain medical conditions. 

To qualify, you’ll need to have a water meter and receive certain benefits.  

Social tariffs 

Many water companies offer discounted rates for customers on low incomes or to those receiving certain benefits.  

But offers and eligibility varies, so check directly with your water company. 

Repayment plans 

Water companies can arrange repayment plans to spread the cost of your bill over a more manageable period. 

Contact your provider directly to see how they can help. 

Payment breaks and holidays 

If you're dealing with short-term hardship, like job loss or illness, you may be able to pause or reduce your payments. 

Speak to your provider as soon as possible to see if you're eligible and to agree on a plan to restart payments when the break ends. 

Priority Services Register 

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free service that gives extra support to vulnerable people, such as those who are elderly or disabled. 

Although it doesn't directly reduce your bills, it does make sure you get tailored help. 

Read our guide on what measures are in place for people who are struggling with their bills to find out more. 

Ways to save water   

There are simple steps you can take to start saving water and money on your bill straight away.  

  • Boil only what you need – avoid filling the kettle for one cup of tea. 

  • Run full loads – only use dishwashers and washing machines when full. 

  • Take shorter showers – set a timer or play a four-minute song. 

  • Turn off the tap – especially when brushing your teeth. 

  • Reuse water – use leftover sink water to water your plants. 

  • Keep water in the fridge – avoid running the tap until it’s cold. 

  • Install a toilet water-saver – they’re free from most water companies. 

  • Use a watering can, not a hose – to save hundreds of litres in the garden. 

  • Switch to a water-efficient showerhead – it uses less water but the same pressure. 

  • Fix leaks fast – a leaky tap or toilet can cost you a lot of money over time. 

If your water bill is becoming unmanageable, talk to your supplier, explore support schemes, and make a few simple changes at home.  

It could save you a lot more than just water. 

Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead - Money Wellness

Written by: Gabrielle Pickard Whitehead

Lead financial content writer

Gabrielle is an experienced journalist, who has been writing about personal finance and the economy for over 17 years. She specialises in social and economic equality, welfare and government policy, with a strong focus on helping readers stay informed about the most important issues affecting financial security.

Published: 4 June 2025

The information in this post was correct at the time of publishing. Please check when it was written, as information can go out of date over time.

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Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead - Money Wellness

Written by: Gabrielle Pickard Whitehead

Lead financial content writer

Published: 4 June 2025

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