FOLLOWING the letter of April 7, entitled "Water bill cancels out pension extra", I am writing from WaterVoice Central, the local consumer watchdog for water, to offer some advice which may be useful to help customers reduce their water bills.
The author of the letter referred to the recent increase in water bills. WaterVoice is well aware that many people, particularly pensioners and customers on low and fixed incomes, will find it hard to find the extra cash to pay their water bills.
However, customers can help themselves in a number of ways.
They could consider having a water meter installed. Three-quarters of household customers are still charged using the antiquated rateable value system. This does not take into account the amount of water used in the home.
Smaller households, particularly those whose property has a higher rateable value, are very likely to benefit from lower bills by having a meter installed, as they will probably be using less water than the average household.
Water meters can be installed free of charge, and customers have the right to revert to the old rateable value system within 12 months if they find that the meter is not saving them any money.
If customers wish to apply for a meter application pack or require any further information they can contact Severn Trent Water on 08457 090 646.
Alternatively, customers can contact WaterVoice Central for independent advice on 08457 023 953.
LEE NEWMAN
Regional manager
WaterVoice Central
central@watervoice.org.uk
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