Water UK

The amount of rainfall received across the UK varies considerably throughout the year. With the added threat of climate change it makes for prudent planning by companies to constantly review the amount of water they have, and to ensure it is used for the best purposes when sources are low.

There are two main types of restrictions which can be imposed or applied for by water companies – hosepipe bans and drought orders.

Hosepipe bans

A hosepipe ban means that you are not allowed to use a hosepipe or sprinkler for watering domestic gardens or washing cars. Hosepipes and garden sprinklers can use as much water in an hour as a family of four in a day, so restrictions on their use can make a real difference, particularly at times of high water demand. A hosepipe ban mainly affects domestic customers and is designed to reduce water consumption with the least impact on lifestyle and livelihoods.

The law under which bans can be introduced dates back some 60 years and does not adequately cover some aspects of modern life such as swimming pools and jet washers. Water UK is involved in Defra's current review of the legislation.

A recent Mori survey found that 84% of consumers supported the use of bans and 96% said they tried to comply. Companies work hard to explain why restrictions are needed and appreciate this support.

Hosepipe bans are controversial, so it is good that the need for them has been significantly reduced in recent years. However, a system that never needed a hosepipe ban would make very little sense. It would require massive extra investment, cause unnecessary environmental upheaval and mean higher water bills. It would also be poor value for money, because new plant would stand idle most of the time. Limited and timely restrictions can keep costs down and reduce the impacts all round.

Drought orders

Ordinary drought orders allow water companies to impose restrictions on non-essential use by public and private sector organisations. They can only be granted by the Secretary of State and are made only for specified periods and only after the views of objectors and consultees have been taken into account, usually via a public inquiry. Emergency drought orders can only be granted if, in addition to a serious deficiency of supplies of water, the economic or social well-being of persons in the area is likely to be impaired. Such orders can provide for emergency supplies of water and are only considered in very extreme or exceptional circumstances.

Bruce Horton
Policy Adviser
020 7344 1817

Barrie Clarke
Director of Communication
020 7344 1804