Who supplies my business water?

Not sure who supplies your business water? Check your latest bill for quick answers. If invoices are missing or you’re thinking about switching, read our short guide below.

The fastest way to check who supplies your business water is through your most recent water bill.

Your water supplier should be invoicing you on your agreed schedule. However, if you’re struggling to find your invoices, have yet to see one, or are looking to switch business water services, this guide is for you.

We’ll cover:

  • How to find out your water supplier

  • Understanding the retail water market

  • How to check your business’ eligibility to switch

  • Securing cheaper rates for commercial water

Any questions at any point or should you need additional business water help, simply get in touch with our team.

Finding your business water supplier (UK)

If your business launched before 2017, finding out your water provider back then was pretty simple - it was whoever the regional water company was for your area. One provider, total area coverage.

However, since April 2017, the retail water market has been in effect.

This change to the water sector has opened up the market for 1.2 million businesses. So, if you’re wondering ‘can i change my business water supplier?’, it’s good news - the answer now is very likely yes.

For eligible businesses*, no longer do you have to stick with your regional provider - if you’re unhappy with the service or are seeking a better deal, you can shop around and find cheaper rates to suit your needs.

*Note: The retail water market is only open to eligible business and non-household customers, such as firms, charities, and public sector organisations. For household customers, regional water companies will continue to supply as before.

So, who supplies my business water?

To find out your water supplier, you’ll need to dig out any recent invoices you’ve had regarding your water supply. Your water provider should be listed there.

If you can’t find your invoice or have recently moved to a new site or region, you can give our team a call on 0333 014 3131. We can access the database on your behalf and find out who you’re with.

Understanding the retail water market

April 2017 saw the opening of the retail water market. For the first time, restrictions were lifted, meaning UK businesses can now shop around and change business water suppliers if preferred.

As a result, the water sector now operates like other utility markets, such as electricity and gas.

Water suppliers will buy their product wholesale (freshwater supply/wastewater removal, for example) and bundle it as packages to sell to customers. This keeps deals competitive, and the market fresh with opportunity.

Unsure if your business is eligible to switch? Contact Clear Business today and we’ll do all the paperwork for you, or check Ofwat’s* eligibility guidance and supplementary documents.

*Ofwat is responsible for regulating annual water rates in England and Wales. For Scottish businesses, please visit the Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) or get in touch with our team for guidance.

Is water cheaper for business?

Typically, you’ll find business water tariffs to be cheaper than what you’re used to in domestic markets. Although the bill itself will be higher (due to wider usage), the rate at which you’re charged will likely be cheaper.

As with business energy, a key reason why businesses opt to switch their water provider is the potential savings on running costs - and here, at Clear Business, we’ve helped over 55,000 small businesses1 do just that.

Our experts continually compare water rates, ensuring our customers benefit from the lowest prices. In fact, we save small businesses £164 every year on their water bill2 on average.

Why switch?

  • Improved standards of service

  • No switching fees - totally free!

  • Customised package that better meets your business’ needs

  • Lower monthly charges

  • No disruption to your service

  • If we can’t beat them, we offer a competitor price match - or you can leave for free3



All this, without a dip in water quality - for many businesses, it’s truly a win-win!

If you’re considering making the switch, our team will take you through your options. We’ll check the Supply Point IDentifier number (SPID number) for your premises and, once the switch goes ahead - you can expect about 7 days - be in touch for meter reads.

On the fence but would still like some support in understanding the terms of your business water contract? Not a problem - contact us today, and we’d be happy to help.

Ready to switch water suppliers?

Looking to cut costs and save time on your business water? You’re in the right spot! Just like with our energy tariffs, our business water services4 are no different - we do all the hard work for you.

Same water. Same pipes. Better rates. Let us make it easier for you.

Find out if you could save money on your essential business services

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