MARTYN JAMES

Stop water bill increases from draining your cash

- Martyn James is a leading consumer rights campaigner, TV and radio broadcaster and journalist

I took a sharp intake of breath when I saw my water bill for 2025/26 - and I was already aware that my payments were going up by £26 a month, a 31% increase.

My postbag is full of correspondence from readers who are worried about being able to afford this most essential of bills.

In England and Wales, water bills have gone up on average £123 a year. That's an increase of 26%.

However, in some parts of the UK much higher increases have occurred, with Southern Water customers paying 47% more.

Bills in Scotland are up just under 10%, while in Northern Ireland, domestic customers do not pay water rates.

While you can't ditch your water company without moving out of the area, there are a few ways to reduce costs if you are struggling.

SMART WATER METERS

Having a smart water meter installed could save you some money, but don't rush to get one unless you're sure you'll save cash.

Water bills are estimated based on the size and value of your property in most parts of the UK.