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Related documents
- Surface water drainage charges: the current position
- Why do I have to pay surface water drainge?
- Why is this the best system of charging?
- How does it affect community organisations?
- What you can do to reduce your charge
- What is the latest situation with surface water drainage charging and United Utilities?
- Surface water drainage charges: Information for non-household customers
Common misconceptions
1. This is a new charge
Surface water drainage charges are not new. There has always been a cost associated with removing and processing rainwater that falls on properties and then flows directly or indirectly into the public drainage systems. This cost has always been passed on to customers through their bills.
2. Charges are rising and to the benefit of water companies
Some customers will pay more, and some customers will pay less. The overall income for the companies concerned remains the same under the new system.
3. Certain organisations, such as churches, were previously exempt from the charge
There has never been an exemption from water charges under law for any organisation. No customer is exempt from paying water and sewerage charges if they receive a service. Very low or no charges were due to certain organisations having an artificially low or zero rateable value.
4. Ofwat can currently make a decision to exempt certain groups from charges
Our approach is in keeping with the Government's strategy. In 2000 the Secretary of State issued guidance to Ofwat on matters to be taken into account when agreeing companies’ charges schemes. This included charging non-household users that are not businesses including places of worship, community facilities, charities and voluntary bodies. The guidance stated that those making similar demands on a service should be charged on the same basis.
A decision to exclude certain groups of customers from these charges would require a government decision and legislative changes.
5. Organisations cannot reduce their charges
Surface water drainage charges based on site area are only payable for areas which drain, directly or indirectly, into public sewers.
Therefore areas where water does not run off to a drain, such as church yards or playing fields, are not subject to the charge. This can mean the cost of site area charges for organisations such as churches and sports clubs are significantly reduced. Where a water company has not taken account of such features the customer may notify the company, which should then make the adjustment.
