Introduction
Have you ever faced issues with your water supply, such as missed appointments or low water pressure? If so, you might be eligible for compensation from your water company. This guide will help you understand your rights and the steps to take in order to claim what you deserve. With the support of Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts, you can navigate the complexities of your legal situation with ease. Contend offers the easiest legal help in the UK, ensuring you have the guidance you need to resolve your legal problems effectively.
If you’ve ever experienced issues with your water supply, such as missed appointments or low water pressure, you might be wondering if you can get compensation from your water company. The good news is that there are specific standards that water companies must follow, and if they fail to meet these standards, you could be entitled to compensation. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand your rights and how to claim what you deserve.
What Standards Do Water Companies Have to Follow?
Water companies are regulated by Ofwat, which sets out a guaranteed standards scheme. This scheme outlines the minimum standards that companies must meet regarding:
- Keeping appointments
- Maintaining proper water pressure
- Handling interruptions in water supply
- Responding to account queries and complaints
However, it’s important to note that these standards may not apply in certain situations, such as severe weather or actions taken by third parties.
Some water companies may offer a higher level of service than what is required by Ofwat. To find out if your company provides additional services, check their website or contact them directly.
Automatic Compensation
In some cases, compensation will be paid automatically. This could come in the form of a direct payment or a credit to your water account. If you owe money on your water bills, any compensation you receive will typically go towards that balance.
For business customers, compensation amounts are often higher compared to those for residential customers.
Your Rights Regarding Appointments
When you schedule an appointment with your water company, they need to inform you whether it will be in the morning or afternoon and allow you to pick a two-hour time slot. If they fail to show up during that time, you are entitled to a £20 compensation payment, which should be issued within ten working days. If they miss this deadline, you can claim an additional £10.
If the company cancels your appointment with less than 24 hours’ notice, you are also entitled to compensation.
Low Water Pressure
Water companies are required to maintain a certain water pressure. If your pressure drops below the minimum level for more than an hour on at least two occasions within a 28-day period, you can claim £25. This payment is typically made automatically, but if the company cannot identify affected customers, you’ll need to submit a claim in writing within three months.
Keep in mind that sometimes low pressure can be due to maintenance work done on your property, which is your responsibility.
Handling Account Queries
If you have a question about your water bill or account, your company must respond within ten working days. If you request a different payment method and they decline, they need to inform you within five working days. If they fail to meet these timelines, you can claim £20 in compensation, which should be paid automatically.
However, you won’t be eligible for compensation if your query is frivolous, sent to the wrong address, or if you change your mind.
Interruptions to Your Water Supply
If your water supply is interrupted due to repairs or emergencies, you may be entitled to compensation if the company does not meet their standards.
Drought Orders
In cases where your water supply is interrupted due to emergency drought orders, your water company is required to compensate you. This includes essential uses like cooking, drinking, and flushing toilets, but does not cover activities like watering gardens or washing cars.
Next Steps
If you believe you are entitled to compensation, the first step is to try Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems.
For additional resources, you can check out the following links:
Understanding your rights when it comes to water services can empower you to seek the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat for assistance with any issues!
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