Water bills: expert says little-known discount could cut bills by up to 90 per cent

Households in England and Wales face an average water bill rise of about £33 a year from April, and a BBC money expert said social tariffs and schemes can cut bills substantially for some low-income or pension credit recipients.

Households across England and Wales are expected to see a typical water bill rise of about £33 a year from April, and complaints to water providers have increased. On BBC Morning Live, money expert Laura Pomfret highlighted that social tariff programmes and other schemes exist to help people on modest incomes or receiving certain benefits. The article reports examples where Southern Water customers might get between 45% and 90% off, and other companies were cited offering smaller reductions depending on circumstances. Key points: - Average bill change: the article reports a typical household increase of about £33 annually from April and a reported rise in complaints to providers. - Social tariffs: social tariff programmes are described as available for low-income or pension credit claimants, with the article citing Southern Water as offering reported reductions of 45–90% and other companies offering different discounts. - Additional schemes: the Watersure Scheme was mentioned as a cap for certain metered households with qualifying needs; single-occupier and assessed charges were also cited, and meters in England and Wales are reported to be installable free of charge. - Disputes and other support: the piece states billing disputes should first be raised with the water company and, if unresolved, can be escalated to the Consumer Council for Water or equivalents; the Warm Home Discount was also noted as ongoing winter support. Summary: The reported price rise from April may increase pressure on household budgets while existing social tariffs and schemes could substantially reduce bills for some low-income and pension credit recipients. The price change is due to take effect in April, and the article reports the expert recommended checking with water companies about available assistance.