The economic regulator of the water and sewerage industry in England and Wales

Ofwat (The Water Services Regulation Authority) is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage sectors in England and Wales. We are here to make sure that the companies provide household and business consumers with a good quality service and value for money. Find out more about us, and about the water and sewerage sectors.

Hot topics

Threshold drop for choosing your supplier

The threshold for switching suppliers has dropped. Non-household customers in England who use more than 5Ml (5,000m³) of water may be eligible to switch suppliers to one of the water supply licensees.

Water supply licensees have a licence from us to supply large users with water. We make sure that licensees have the financial, technical and managerial resources they need to hold a licence, but your agreement with them is negotiated under commercial terms. Find out more about choosing a water supply licensee.
 

Future price limits – a consultation on the framework

Since privatisation 22 years ago, regulation of the water and sewerage sectors has played an important part in their success. But the sectors face continuing challenges, and some strong drivers for change. And our own analysis and feedback from our stakeholders show that we have an opportunity to improve our regulatory approach to contribute to another successful 20 years. ‘Future price limits’ is a consultation on how we might do that.

Find out more at ‘Future price limits – a consultation on the framework’.

How has your company performed?

Across England and Wales, most customers cannot choose their water and sewerage service supplier. This is why we assess the performance of monopoly water and sewerage companies (WaSCs) and water only companies (WoCs) in England and Wales to make sure they are delivering what customers’ have paid for, delivering the services that customers expect, and complying with their obligations.

In Water companies in England and Wales: summary of performance 2010-11, we summarise our assessment of how the monopoly companies performed in 2010-11. We also outline any action we are taking on behalf of consumers if a company has failed to deliver. You can find detailed information about the performance of your local water company on its website.