Since the water market opened in April 2017, the responsibilities for water and sewerage services has been divided between wholesalers and retailers.
Wholesalers continue to deliver water to customers through the existing pipes and networks, and some also manage wastewater removal and treatment. However, they no longer engage in direct customer interactions with businesses. Instead, they charge a wholesale rate to retailers, who then pass on the charges to customers while adding a small retail fee for billing, meter reading, and customer services.
In the event of a water or wastewater emergency, such as no water supply, a burst main, taste or odour issues with the water on your property, or if you become aware of a blocked public sewer, it’s important to contact your local wholesaler directly, rather than your retailer. The wholesaler is responsible for handling and resolving these issues promptly.
It’s a good idea to follow the social media accounts of your water and wastewater wholesalers for up-to-date information, planned disruptions and service announcements that may affect your business operations.
Who is my wholesaler?
Wholesaler contact details
Affinity Water
0345 357 2407
Albion Water
0800 917 5819
Anglian and Hartlepool
03457 145 145
Bournemouth Water
0344 346 2020
Bristol Water
0345 702 3797
Cambridge Water
01223 706050
Cholderton and District Water
07437 445 863
Dwr Cymru Welsh Water
0800 052 0103
Essex and Suffolk
0345 782 0999
Northumbrian Water
0345 717 1100
Portsmouth Water
023 9247 7999
Scottish Water
0800 0778 778
Severn Trent Water
0800 783 4444
South East Water
0333 000 0365
South Staffs Water
0800 389 1011
South West Water
0344 346 2020
Southern Water
0330 303 0368
Sutton and East Surrey
01737 772 000
Thames Water
0800 316 9800
United Utilities
0345 672 3723
Wessex Water
0345 600 4600
Yorkshire Water
0345 124 2424