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Choosing the Best Water Supplier for Small Businesses
Everything you need to know about your water contract for your small business
Running a small business means keeping a close eye on every expense. Water may not be your largest bill, but it is still an important part of your operating costs. Understanding how your water contract works, what you are paying for, and whether you have the best water supplier for your small business can help you save money and avoid unexpected charges.
This guide explains the key elements of business water rates, how to work out if you are getting a good deal, and how The Business Water Shop can help you compare suppliers and secure the right contract for your needs.
What are the water rates small businesses need to pay?
Most small businesses are charged for water in two parts: volumetric charges and standing charges.
Volumetric Charges
These are based on the amount of water your business uses, along with the wastewater that you send into the sewer. Your unit rate depends on your location and your supplier’s tariff. For example, if the rate is £1.20 per m³ and you use 100 m³ in a year, your annual usage cost would be:
£1.20 × 100 = £120.00
The more water you use, the more you pay, so efficiency can directly reduce your costs.
Standing Charges
These are fixed charges that cover services like water supply, wastewater collection, drainage, and billing. They can be charged daily, monthly, or quarterly. For example:
£0.80 per day × 365 days = £292.00 per year
Both volumetric and standing charges will appear on your water bill.
Why the choice of water supplier matters for small businesses
The deregulated water market in England and Scotland allows small businesses to choose their water retailer. This means you can look for the best water supplier for your small business based on price, service, and contract terms.
Some suppliers offer better rates for low-to medium-usage customers, while others focus on customer service and flexible payment options. Comparing these factors can help you find the best supplier for how your business uses water.
How to lower your business water bills
Small businesses can make savings by:
• Installing water-efficient taps and toilets
• Regularly checking for leaks and repairing them quickly
• Using appliances with high water efficiency ratings
• Training staff to use water wisely
• Considering a business water audit to identify savings opportunities
The Business Water Shop can arrange a full audit to check your current rates, usage, and whether you could save by switching suppliers.
Can I switch my water supplier for my small business?
Yes. If you are in England or Scotland, you can switch suppliers. This can bring several benefits:
• Lower prices
• Better customer service
• Flexible billing options
Our free comparison tool makes it easy to find the best water supplier for small businesses in your area.
How much can I save by switching suppliers?
Savings vary depending on your usage and current tariff. Even small reductions in per-unit rates can lead to noticeable savings over a year. The best way to find out is to compare offers from multiple suppliers.
We can help you do that. Get started by using our business water comparison tool.
What if my business does not have a water meter?
If your business is on an unmeasured tariff, your charges are based on the rateable value of your property rather than actual usage. You can still compare prices and switch to a supplier offering better terms for unmeasured properties.
Need help choosing the best water supplier for a small business?
If you have questions about your water rates or you want to compare suppliers, our team is ready to help.
Start now by comparing business water suppliers.
