Switching with uSwitch is easy - we'll help you decide if switching to a water meter is right for you.
What you'll need to have ready
- your full postcode
- a recent water bill
Step 1: tell us your postcode
Tell uSwitch your postcode so that we can find the water suppliers in your area. Check your water bill and tell us the name of your supplier. This will help us to determine how much you could save with a water meter.
Step 2: Tell us about your home
To find out if you could benefit from having a water meter, simply tell us:
- how many weeks a year your home is occupied
- if you are there during the day or just in the evenings and at weekends
- how many people live in your house
Step 3: Tell us about your water usage
We'll ask you how much water you use in the different areas of your home and garden. For example, we'll ask how many baths and showers you and your family take every week.
Try to be as accurate as possible so we can calculate your water usage and see if having a new water meter installed might save you money.
If your household does not use a lot of water, you may be able to save money on your water bill by having a water meter fitted. Most people find they become more water-conscious once they have a water meter.
Step 4: Find out how much you could save with a water meter
We'll give you your estimated annual water consumption and tell you if your water consumption is above or below the UK average.
We'll estimate how much money you could save if you switched to a water meter. Water meter installation is normally free.
Step 5: Apply for a water meter
We'll automatically take you to your water supplier's website or provide a number for you to call on. Fill in the new water meter request form and they will be in touch to arrange a water meter installation appointment.
It can take up to a few months to get your water meter fitted. Some properties are not suitable for water meters, for example blocks of flats with shared pipes. Your water company will be able to advise you on your options if it is not possible to install a water meter.
What if...
What if your new bill is higher than your old one?
If, once you have your water meter, you find that your new water bill is higher than when you were on an unmetered bill, you can ask to switch back. Contact your water supplier within 12 months after your water meter is installed, or 30 days after your second bill (whichever is later).
What if you have moved into a property that has a water meter but you do not want one?
If you are renting or have recently bought a home with a water meter, you will not be able to change from having a water meter to having unmetered billing.
What if someone calls to read your water meter?
Once you have a water meter fitted, the water company should not need to call to read it. There will be a touchpad on the outside of your property which the water company can use to read your water meter electronically. So if someone calls to read your water meter, ask for identification - and if in doubt do not let them in.
What if you're not sure if you're already using a water meter?
If your water bill refers to a volumetric charge in cubic meters (m3), then you have a water meter. If your bill refers to the rateable value (RV) of your home, you are paying an unmeasured charge - without a water meter.
