The Consumer Council Water charges for businesses

Water charges for businesses

Non-domestic charging

In April 2008 new sewerage charges were introduced for all non-domestic customers and changes were made to the existing charges scheme. All non-domestic consumers who are connected to the public water and sewerage system must pay charges for using these services. The costs of these are set out in NI Water’s Scheme of Charges.

Non-domestic bills

Bills are either measured or unmeasured.

Measured bills

The measured bill is made up of two parts; a standing charge and a charge based on the amount of water you use.  Measured customers may be entitled to a domestic water and sewerage allowance. Contact NI Water for more information on the domestic allowance.

Unmeasured bills

Unmeasured bills are based on a standing charge and a charge based on the Net Annual Value of the customer’s property.  Currently unmeasured customers receive a discount to reflect the domestic allowance offered to measured customers.  

Assessed charges

Where it has been agreed with a customer that it is not possible to fit a meter to their supply, NI Water will offer an alternative assessed charge for water and sewerage services. The assessed charge will be based on a standing charge and a charge based on an assessment of water consumption at the property. Customers may be entitled to a domestic water and sewerage allowance.

More details can be found in NI Water’s Scheme of Charges which can be found on their website.

What is the Consumer Council doing for non-domestic customers?

The Consumer Council works with the Utility Regulator and NI Water during the development of the annual scheme of charges, which sets out the charges for water, sewerage and other services that apply for each year.  Our job is to ensure that any changes are fully justified and to improve the scheme of charges to make it more user-friendly and accessible for consumers.

Got a complaint about water/sewerage services?

If you have contacted NI Water and are unhappy with the way your enquiry was dealt with, the Consumer Council may be able to help. Click here to find out more about our complaints role.

Got a Complaint? Make it Online

The Consumer Council handles complaints about buses, trains, planes, ferries, natural gas, electricity, coal and water.

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