by Molly

Water Water Everywhere; Choose who Supplies your Business Water and our 7 Savings Tips

Water deregulation in the UK has been initiated to remove barriers to competition and open up the water retail market for non-domestic customers. This means that organisations in England will now be able to shop around and choose their water supplier - no more being tied to your local supplier just because of your postcode.

Scotland became the first country in the world to deregulate its water market for non-domestic customers back in 2008. Many businesses in Scotland have changed supplier since then, and it is estimated that businesses in Scotland could make savings of between 15% and 20% just by switching.

As of 1st April 2017, businesses, charities and public sector organisations in England have the freedom to choose their water supplier too. For organisations in Wales and Northern Ireland there are currently no plans to follow England and Scotland. However, Since 2003 very large water consumers in Wales (those who use over 50 million cubic metres per year) have been able to choose their retail water supplier if that retailer is based wholly or mainly in Wales. This threshold will remain and so it does mean that there's access to more competitive deals for some at least.

Money saving tips on your business water

You're free to choose a supplier that gives you the service and price to meet your needs; consider switching.

Are you a multi-site business? Let's say you have 8 sites, in 8 different parts of England. At the moment you'll get 8 separate bills. Consider consolidating with one supplier. It could be a great cost saving measure but it'll be a saving in admin for your finance team too.

Use water wisely. Can new equipment and technology save you X amount cubic metres per annum? If so, it may be time to invest in upgrades.

Check for leaks. Because your organisation pays for the water used, don't let it just leak away.

Drainage of rainwater (and let's face it, we get quite a lot), makes up part of your bill but there are ways to reduce this in some cases.

You'll be charged for any wastewater (this can include from a toilet or kitchen) and drainage from your property. The amount you pay is linked to how much water you use . But if the water is retained within a manufactured product then you may not need to pay this element of your bill.

Fix leaking taps. Or ask your landlord to if it's their responsibility. Check your meter's not increasing when you're not using water. If it is, get leaks sorted.

Bonus Recommendation

Take monthly meter readings and track your consumption. Water meters are generally pretty similar in that you'll see a line of black or white numbers (as well as red or white dials/ numbers). The black or white line of numbers show how many cubic meters of water you've used and this is the number the suppliers need in order to accurately bill.

Conclusion

Water suppliers are likely to up their customer service game going forward; they all want to win your business and customer will no doubt be king, now that said king can just leave if they're unhappy with the service they receive.

For those on a water meter, saving water means saving money. But it can also slash energy bills and help the environment too.

Did You know - The average human being uses approximately 142 litres of water per day. Whilst some of this is in their own homes, some of it is on your business premises too.

Find out more about Business Water Procurement.

"Water suppliers are likely to up their customer service game going forward; they all want to win your business and customer will no doubt be king, now that said king can just leave if they're unhappy with the service they receive."