23/12/09
The Walker review of household charges sees an overriding need to tackle the growing problem of debt, particularly among customers living in rented properties.
Ms Walker's report recommends that "as a priority, the Water Industry Act should be amended to provide for a named customer and clarify who is responsible for paying the water bill".
This includes landlords providing tenant information to their water company. To prevent debt escalating, a clause for the provision of information and (discharge of) landlords' liability for water charges ought to be in the current Bill. Water UK will propose an amendment to bring about such a change.
Water UK background briefing on water debt
Contact: Phill Mills
