Single Person Water discount

HAMIL01

Hi all, does anybody know if you can reclaim on previous years bills where you were eligible for single occupancy but never applied, I can see that the water companies can increase your bills going back as far as they want, but nothing on ofwat or their websites about backdating claims for single occupancy. Would be grateful for any help

thanks

Hasbeen

HAMIL01 said:

Hi all, does anybody know if you can reclaim on previous years bills where you were eligible for single occupancy but never applied, I can see that the water companies can increase your bills going back as far as they want, but nothing on ofwat or their websites about backdating claims for single occupancy. Would be grateful for any help

thanks

What water company and do you have a water meter fitted?

Cardew

Welcome to the forum.

If you have a meter you cannot get a single person discount.

If your charges are unmetered you also cannot get a single person discount.

The only way to get a single person discount is to get an 'assessed charge'. To get an assessed charge you have to apply for a meter and the water company cannot fit a meter - this often happens in flats.

'Properties with complicated plumbing - particularly in flats - mean it’s not always possible to install water meters.

In these cases, we’ll ensure you get a water bill that better reflects the amount of water you use. A flat rate charge is available called the ‘Assessed Household Charge’.

The Assessed Household Charge is the most accurate way to calculate a fair bill without a meter. It’s based on the average amount of water that metered customers use in properties of a similar size to yours. If we find that it’s cheaper for you to stay on your current charges then don’t worry, we won’t change it over and you’ll continue to be billed on your current rate.

There's also a discount for single occupants if you live alone.

These tariffs are only available if you've applied for a meter but we've been unable to fit one - either because it's not possible or it would be too complicated to fit.'

The important point is that you have to apply for a meter before you can be placed on an assessed charge and the will not backdate.

There was a series of posts on MSE years ago where people in flats knew a meter couldn't be fitted in their block - as other occupants has tried to get a meter - so never applied. They then found out about the assessed charge and tried to get the charge backdated, but the water companies would not budge.