Don't miss out on utility compensation payouts

We often associate compensation payouts with having to battle with businesses after they make mistakes or treat us badly. But did you know many of the businesses that bill you monthly are supposed to pay you compensation when things go wrong?

- Martyn James

I say 'supposed to pay' because some are, ahem, a bit lax about coughing up. But if you know just a little bit about the rules you'll be better able to fight your corner.

Here's my guide.

Water compensation

You are entitled to compensation automatically if your water supply is interrupted, though this depends on which part of the UK you live in. In England and Wales, the Guaranteed Standards Scheme (GSS) states water companies must make sure water pressure is consistent, appointments to fix issues are kept and interruptions are dealt with as soon as possible.

Scottish Water has a consumer charter that lists the compensation payable under a range of different circumstances. In Northern Ireland, there is no automatic compensation as domestic customers do not pay water rates.

You can check out a table covering all the payments you're entitled to on Ofwat's website.

Energy compensation