The bill type changes what evidence matters.
Step 1
Check what changed before you complain.
A high water bill can be caused by a real use change, an estimate, a leak, a meter issue, wastewater charges, or a support scheme that has not been applied.
Bill anatomy
Most bill problems start in one of four places.
Compare the bill reading with today's meter reading.
Hidden leaks, wrong meters, and surface water can change charges.
WaterSure, social tariffs, payment plans, and rebates are worth checking.
Bill checker
Build your first action list
Bill check
Enter your details
Your action list will appear here. The result is guidance only, not a decision on your bill.
Example journey
A sudden bill jump from an estimate.
This example shows the order of checks. It does not decide whether a real bill is wrong.
The bill is much higher than normal and the reading says estimated, not actual.
Photograph the meter reading and serial number, then compare it with the bill reading and date.
Run a no-use meter test, check toilets and tanks, and keep repair evidence if a leak is found.
Send the actual reading and ask the company to recalculate, explain estimates, and confirm any allowance.
If the reply does not answer the evidence, use the company complaint route, then CCW if unresolved.
First checks
The strongest bill checks are usually simple.
Actual or estimated?
Compare the bill reading with the meter today. Photograph the meter with the date visible if possible.
Wrong meter?
In flats or converted homes, check whether the meter serial number on the bill matches the meter serving your home.
Leak test
Turn off taps and appliances, then check whether the meter still moves. Keep times and photos.
Surface water
If rainwater does not drain to the public sewer, ask about a surface water drainage rebate.