In a recent post, we’ve written about choosing the right energy supplier for your business. While gas and electricity tend to be the main source of concerns when it comes to utility bills, water bills don’t always make it to the top of the priority list. Today, we’re taking a closer look at water retailers and how to choose the right one for your business.
While regional wholesalers have traditionally managed networks in specific areas, many business owners don’t realise that they can now choose which water retailer they want to be with. Since the opening of the water market in 20018 in Scotland and 2017 in England, the industry has seen many new retailers enter the market. This competitive environment is great news for businesses, as retailers are now battling to offer the highest standards of services, excellent customer service and the best water rates possible.
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How to know who your retailer is?
If you’ve not taken any action since the opening of the water market, your business will have automatically been transferred to the retailer closely linked to the regional wholesaler. For example, if you used to be billed by Thames Water, you will now receive bills from Castle Water.
If you want to find out who your water retailer is, you can contact any water retailer who should be able to tell you who supplies your water.
Why should you change water retailer?
If you felt like you were paying too much for your phone contract, or that the terms were no longer what you needed, you would look for another provider to see if they had a better offer, correct? The same can be said for water retailers.
If you’re not entirely satisfied with the services or the rate offered by your current retailer, it may be time to look at what other retailers can offer you. You can usually find more information about switching on the retailer’s website: https://www.castlewater.co.uk/switch-water-supplier
Changing water retailer can usually help you:
- Save money on water bills
- Receive higher standards of service
- Get advice on reducing your water usage
What should you look for in a retailer?
While a lower rate may seem like the main reason why one would want to change water supplier, there are many other benefits.
Ideally, you want to find a retailer that will offer you complementary services as well as core ones, so you can have an overall approach to water in your business. This means that they can help you identify areas of improvements to reduce your water usage, use water more efficiently and in most cases reduce your bills.
Services can for example include wastewater & trade effluent management, water efficiency advice, water contingency planning or water audits. Being in a competitive market, customers can enjoy higher standards of service and get truly tailored solutions for their business, no matter what industry you operate in or the size of your business.
Aside from services offered, it’s worth looking at customer service ratings and how easy it is to manage your account or get support regarding enquiries. Many retailers offer an online platform where customers can manage their account, submit meter readings or view their bills, for example. Multi-site businesses can often enjoy consolidated billing and other services that will make the management of their account much easier.
Looking at your water supplier and the services they offer can immensely benefit your business. Next time you are reviewing utility bills or looking for ways to save money, don’t forget about water bills! If you’re looking for more advice, you can find all our business posts here.
