Water bill checking: what business owners miss and why it costs them

Business water bills are often paid without a second glance. Since the market deregulated, businesses can switch water retailers, but many do not realize they can also challenge the underlying charges.

Key areas to check include: 1. Surface Water Drainage: Are you being charged for rainwater entering the public sewer? If rainwater on your site drains into a soakaway or a river, you might be exempt from this charge. 2. Meter Sizing: Larger meters attract higher fixed charges. If your meter is too large for your actual usage, you could be overpaying. 3. Return to Sewer Allowances: If your business uses water in its products or processes (meaning not all water drawn from the tap goes down the drain), you shouldn't pay sewerage charges on 100% of the incoming water.