31/01/12
Defra has launched a consultation on how to tackle the growing problem of water debt, which adds £15 to the bills of all customers.
We agree with the Environment Minister, Richard Benyon MP, that it is just not right that responsible people have to pick up the bills of those who are not paying.
Water companies don't have the correct information on who is liable for charges, particularly in rented accommodation, and they are looking to government to implement as soon as possible a requirement for landlords to provide this information.
The water industry will make it straightforward for landlords to provide information to water companies by setting up an easy-to-use website, but the alternative voluntary approach proposed by the government just won't work.
Tackling water debt
Water UK press release
Tackling bad debt in the water industry
Defra consultation
