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Business Water

If you’re looking to save money on your business water, our team can compare your water rates for you. We’ll review your current water bills and collect tailored quotes from the 17 water retailers we work with. You can then choose the best price & package for your business and budget.

After we’ve compared suppliers and you’ve decided to make the switch, we’ll help to change you over to your new water provider. We’ll liaise with your current and new suppliers, helping to complete the necessary paperwork and onboarding process on your behalf. We’ll then agree on a switching date with your current water provider.

The cheapest water suppliers in both countries will depend on a number of factors. In Scotland, there are 7 different charges to consider: Potable water standing charge, potable water metering charge, wastewater standing charge, wastewater volumetric charge, surface water drainage, highways drainage and foul sewage and trade effluent.

In England, 11 regional companies provide water and water services and they all have different ways of charging. Your business will have to pay this charge plus a variable retail fee. If you want to find the cheapest provider for your business, get in touch with Tariff.com today.

Whilst you can compare your water service at any time, you can only switch your provider when your contract with your current supplier ends. We will check the end date of your fixed-term contract and start arranging your switch up to three months in advance of your end date.

Water regulations apply in England and Wales to all plumbing systems, water fittings and equipment, to protect your water supply from contamination. Your water supplier is responsible to the Government for the enforcement of the regulations, they have the right to assess your premises to ensure your water fittings comply.

A metered water rate means your business only pays for the water it actually uses, measured through a water meter. In contrast, unmetered water rates are based on the property’s rateable value, regardless of how much water you consume.

This depends on your business size and water usage. If you use less water than average, a metered supply can help you save money by only charging for what you use. High-usage businesses may find unmetered charges more predictable but potentially more expensive.

Businesses now have a choice of water supplier and don’t have to settle for their regional provider. By comparing and switching suppliers, you could see a 40% reduction in your water bills, experience better customer service and benefit from value-added service.

Like most things, water prices will increase over time.  This additional cost is often used to maintain and operate the water network. Every year in April, Ofwat, the regulatory body for water, adjusts the underlying wholesale rate to compensate for these costs. To limit any price increase, you can compare and switch suppliers with Tariff.com.

Did you know you could save anywhere between 40% on your water bills simply by switching suppliers? Whether you’re in Scotland or England, the Tariff team is on hand to compare water suppliers and find your business the best deal.

In April 2024, water prices will increase, including both wholesale water rates and retail water rates. With the Tariff team on the case, you can ensure you’re getting the best deal on your water bills and have full control over your utility spending.

Yes, water regulations can affect your business, your water fittings and fixtures must comply with the regulations in place by your supplier and the Government. As a business, you need to stop the prevention of water contamination.

Most modern business premises are on metered supplies. You can check your latest water bill, it will show either actual meter readings or estimated usage. If no meter readings are listed and charges are based on rateable value, you’re on an unmetered tariff.

The world of business water can be full of jargon, here’s a quick guide to help you understand some of the most common terms:

• Standing charge: A fixed daily or annual fee covering the cost of maintaining your supply and infrastructure, paid regardless of usage.

• Volumetric charge: The part of your bill based on the actual amount of water your business uses (measured in cubic meters).

• Rateable value: Used for unmetered properties, this is an old assessment of your property’s rental value and is used to estimate your water charges.

• Wastewater charge: The cost of removing and treating used water that returns to the sewer system.

• Trade effluent: Liquid waste from industrial or commercial processes (excluding domestic wastewater). Businesses discharging trade effluent need special consent and may pay separate charges.

• Return to sewer: The estimated amount of your water that goes back into the sewer system. If your business uses water in products or processes (so it doesn’t all return), you might qualify for an adjustment.

• Wholesaler vs retailer: The wholesaler owns and maintains the water network, while the retailer handles customer service and billing. In England and Scotland, businesses can choose their retailer.

• Meter reading: A record of the water you’ve actually used, ensuring accurate billing.

• Business water deregulation: Since 2017 (England) and 2008 (Scotland), businesses have been able to choose their water retailer, encouraging better prices and service.

Want to understand even more energy and utility terms? Check out our full Energy Glossary for a comprehensive guide.