Cost of living: Southern water bills set to rise

The company said it is raising household bills in line with inflation.

Southern Water headquarters in Worthing

Dual-service customers who receive both water and wastewater services from Southern Water can expect their fees to increase by 9.4 percent.

With an average annual bill currently at £401, that means an increase to £439 based on these increases.

Water-only bills will increase by 9 percent and waste by 9.7 percent.

Katy Taylor, Southern Water’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “The increase this year reflects growing economic pressures from chemicals, energy and wage inflation.

“We recognize that the cost of living crisis in the UK is of concern to many of our customers and as such plans to increase tariffs are never taken lightly.

“We’re channeling more money than ever into supporting customers in need, particularly those who may be struggling to pay their bills.”

The average cost of a household bill will increase by £38

Southern Water has put together a £98m support package for customers in need, reducing bills and offering grants.

Ms Taylor said: “These 98 million

“If you know someone who is having a hard time paying their bills, please encourage them to get in touch with us as we can help.”

Southern Water said it has “worked hard over the last few years to keep bills as low as possible”.

A spokesman said: “In real terms, the average bill in 2023-24 is still 12.5 per cent lower than four years ago and our annual bill changes have been below inflation over that period and have declined in two of those years.

“Last year’s average duplicate bill of £401 was four per cent lower than the industry average of £419.”