Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps the Government is taking to ensure that water companies do not charge clients for surface water drainage that does not go into the sewer network.

Government charging guidance to Ofwat covers the charges that incumbent water and sewerage companies set for customers. Under this guidance, customers who can demonstrate to their water company that their surface water does not drain into the public sewer network are entitled to a surface water drainage rebate. Companies are required to offer discounts in these circumstances. Customers can find the levels of rebate in their sewerage company’s charges scheme.

Ofwat can take action against companies who are not applying their charging rules correctly. Customers may also seek advice from the Consumer Council for Water, who can also help customers who wish to make a complaint about water company charges.