Overview

• Households in England and Wales are paying about £123 more this year, taking the typical annual bill to roughly £603.
• Southern Water customers face the steepest increase at 47%, lifting the average bill to about £703.
• Policy in Practice research finds £974 million in social‑tariff support went unclaimed in 2024.
• Water companies offer targeted tariffs that can reduce bills by 30% to 90% or cap charges, with eligibility often tied to income thresholds, certain benefits or water costs exceeding 3%–5% of net income.
• Advisers encourage customers to contact their supplier to check for discounts and hardship help detailed in the new company-by-company summaries.