Water Bills Set to Rise By up to 84% Under New Ofwat Plans Affecting Customers

• Water regulator Ofwat proposed a bill increase of £94 over five years earlier this year.
• New plans suggest the hike could be significantly higher for some water companies.
• Southern Water could see the steepest rise of 85%, while Thames Water requests a 53% increase.
• Official decision on the rise is expected by December 19, 2024.

Water bills are set to increase more sharply than originally proposed, with some customers potentially facing hikes of up to 84% under new plans. Earlier this year, Ofwat, the water regulator, proposed an average rise of £94 over five years—around £19 per year—to help cover investment and rising costs. However, it is now understood the increases may be much higher for certain companies, with Southern Water aiming for an 85% hike and Thames Water requesting a 53% rise.

The regulator is expected to confirm the final decision by December 19, 2024, with many households facing steeper bills. Some companies, such as Wessex Water, are not seeking further increases beyond initial requests. Water firms have faced public scrutiny over rising bills and issues like sewage dumping, prompting calls for industry reform. Labour is set to announce a new independent commission to address water industry performance and future investment.