Summary
Water bills vary by company, region and charging method. A metered household pays a standing charge plus a usage charge based on the volume of water used, usually with related wastewater charges. An unmetered household normally pays based on the property’s rateable value, not actual usage.
If a water meter cannot reasonably be fitted, the company may offer an assessed charge. Surface water drainage is also important. If rainwater from the property drains into the public sewer, the sewerage bill may include a surface water drainage charge. Some households can claim relief if their surface water does not drain to the public sewer.
Definition
Water and sewerage bills are recurring charges for clean water supply, wastewater removal and, where applicable, surface water drainage. They can be metered, based on actual consumption, unmetered, based on rateable value, or assessed where a meter is requested but cannot practically be installed.