United Utilities
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Temporary reduction of bills
I wanted a temporary reduction or suspension of my water charges for the property, as it is currently unoccupied and undergoing major refurbishment. I became the legal owner of the property on 18/03/2025; however, I have not been residing at the premises since the purchase date due to ongoing renovation works. Despite this, I have recently received a water bill based on the Rateable Value (RV) system, which does not reflect the actual water usage at the property. In fact, there has been no regular water consumption. I have already applied for a water meter installation, and I was informed that it would be arranged within 6 weeks. It is completely unreasonable that I am expected to pay £840 per year for water as a single person, when my actual annual usage would be around £350. The most frustrating part is that this charge is not based on my actual water consumption or the number of people occupying the property. Instead, it’s based on an outdated Rateable Value system that has no reflection on real-life usage. I find it unacceptable that such an unfair and obsolete system is still legally allowed to operate in the UK. It punishes people like me, especially when a property is empty or under renovation, forcing us to pay unreasonably high bills for services we aren’t even using. I would like to know how this practice can continue legally in 2025, and I formally request an immediate reassessment of my charges while awaiting the installation of my water meter. I have tried to resolve this matter by contacting your customer service, but no assistance has been provided in terms of reducing my bill or offering a temporary discount until the meter is installed. I find this situation unfair, unprofessional, and lacking in reasonable consideration towards customers, especially individuals like myself managing a property renovation. In light of the above, I kindly request: A temporary reduction or suspension of water charges until the property is occupied and the renovation is complete. An urgent update on the status of my water meter installation request. I would appreciate a prompt response and fair resolution to this matter. Thank you for your assistance.