The Facts about Wastewater Charges

You may have seen a charge on your bill for wastewater and thought nothing more about it. However, have you stopped to consider what it is exactly that you are being charged for and whether there is any way you could reduce the amount of money you are spending? Your wastewater charges could also come under sewerage charges, and while they are unavoidable, there are ways to minimise the costs. This can be essential for businesses that are looking to maximise their profits while reducing costly expenses.

Want to know more about wastewater and the charges you incur? Read on!

How Are Water Bills Measured?

There are many factors that determine your water bill and the wastewater charges you may have to pay. Typically, it is the size/diameter of the incoming water supply, the year (as unit costs are viewed annually), and the demand (e.g., the amount of water used/wasted). It also depends on whether you use a meter or pay quarterly or annually.

What Are Wastewater/Sewerage Charges?

A sewerage charge is applied because of the wastewater being taken away from your building. This applies to both residential but also business properties. However, you also pay for wastewater/sewerage charges if surface water drainage is needed (surface water is rainwater that has fallen onto a property and then drains into a nearby public sewer). Not everyone pays for wastewater/sewerage charges, though. If your business does not use a public sewerage system and instead uses a private sewer or a cesspool, you avoid these additional bills. 

How Much do Companies Charge for Wastewater?

Each company will have their own charges and rates for the removal of wastewater. Therefore, it is in your business’s best interests to find a water company that can offer you the best rate so that you can reduce your office expenses. All water providers have to publish their wastewater charges annually. This is because of the water industry regulator OFWAT making it mandatory. Therefore, if you want to find out how much your water provider charges, you can either contact the company directly or head to a comparison site like Utility Bidder for the most up-to-date business water rates.

Cutting down on business expenses is a great way to save your business money. Sadly, many of us seem to settle with the same provider because it seems easier than finding a new one and making the switch. Nowadays this has become an incredibly easy task for us, meaning businesses can simply switch providers for their gas, electricity, water and internet without too much hassle. 

Can You Get a Rebate for Wastewater Charges?

Wastewater charges are determined by the amount of rainwater that falls onto the surface of your property and whether it drains into a public sewer. However, if the rainwater does not drain into a public sewer, you could get a rebate. You will have to contact your water provider and fill out an application providing evidence, and the company may also conduct their own investigation. This can be a lengthy process.

Wastewater charges are a normal occurrence on bills. However, if you feel like your business is paying too much or that you qualify for a rebate, you can either speak to your provider, find a new one (which may be cheaper) or ask them to investigate whether you should be able to get away without paying additional charges.