The Switching Programme

When will I move to measured charges?

We’re gradually moving customers over to measured charges between now and April 2030. Initially we’re moving customers in Essex and Northampton in April 2025, with other areas in the following years,.

What about people without a water meter?

As part of this switching programme, we’ll continue to fit meters in homes without one – whether customers ask to have one fitted or where it’s practical and cost-effective for us to fit one on their behalf. We’ll do this alongside moving customers onto measured charges where they already have a meter fitted, over the next five years.  

What happens if I get a meter fitted after you’ve started this process?

For customers asking for a new meter to be fitted, as this switching program comes to your area, we’ll automatically switch you to measured charges the following April, even if you’ve switched from measured to unmeasured rates since then.

For example, if customers get a meter fitted and move to measured rates in May 2025, if the switching programme has reached their area, they’ll move to measured charges automatically from April 2026, even if they’ve chosen to move back to unmeasured charges before then.

If we fit a new meter at your property where there isn’t one already (and you haven’t asked us for one) we’ll write to you directly to let you know we’re fitting meters to homes in your area and contact you to do a survey at your home to find the best place to fit one.

What are you doing to look after water / fix leaks?

Our teams work around-the-clock to maintain and improve the network of pipes, pumps and sites. We use the latest technology like satellites (the same technology as NASA) to help find and fix leaks before they become a problem. And this work never stops, as our teams are always finding new ways to make sure there is enough water for everyone, both now and in the future. Explore more around how our teams protect our vital water resources here.