13 April 2006
Thames Water has reacted to reports stating that one of its offices was cleaned using pressure hoses.
The company received criticism as a result, after it imposed a hosepipe ban due to low levels of rainfall.
It said in a statement: "Although a number of our staff occupy two rented floors, we do not own the block. We cannot control what happens there, any more than we can control the cleaning of any other premises."
Despite being unable to stop the washing, the company said that it took a dim view of the use of high-pressure hose use.
"The use of these jet washers is infuriating. Some weeks ago, we decided not to wash the windows of our own premises, as we realise how important it is to set an example in the current drought," it said.
It said it had expressed its views to the owner of the building block, but was unable to stop them continuing with the work.
It is the first time in fifteen years that Thames Water has imposed such a restrictions on the water use of its customers. Around eight million people are thought to be affected by the ban.