Water today, water tomorrow
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Why do I have to pay for surface water drainage?

Water and sewerage companies have to remove and process the rain water which falls on properties and then flows directly or indirectly into the public drainage systems. This is known as surface water drainage.

This is an essential service. Without good upkeep of the drainage system, the likelihood of surface water flooding and sewer flooding would increase dramatically.

This essential service comes at a significant cost. The cost of providing surface water drainage services across England and Wales is approximately £600 million a year. Companies are therefore entitled to charge customers so they can provide this service.

If you are a household customer you can find out more in our surface water drainage for household customers section.

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