Introduction
Are you struggling with high water bills and unsure of your options? The WaterSure scheme could be the solution you need to help manage your expenses. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the WaterSure scheme, including who qualifies, the benefits, and how to apply. If you require further assistance or clarity, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to help you navigate your legal concerns. With Contend, you can access the easiest legal help in the UK and find the support you need to resolve your issues effectively.
If you’re struggling to pay your water bills, the WaterSure scheme might be just what you need. This program is designed to help individuals and families who have high water usage due to specific circumstances, such as medical needs or having multiple school-age children. Here’s everything you need to know about the WaterSure scheme, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
What is the WaterSure Scheme?
WaterSure is a program that helps eligible customers manage their water bills by capping the amount they have to pay. This means that if you qualify, you won’t pay more than the average water bill for your area, even if you use more water than usual.
This scheme is available to those who receive their water service from various providers, including Welsh Water, which has its own version called WaterSure Wales.
Who Can Apply for WaterSure?
To qualify for the WaterSure scheme, you need to meet a few key criteria:
-
Water Meter Requirement: You must be on a water meter or have applied for one. If a meter can’t be installed at your property, you might be paying an assessed charge.
-
Benefits: You need to be receiving certain benefits. The specific benefits accepted can vary by water supplier, but generally include:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit (at a higher rate than the family element)
Some suppliers may also include Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payments, so check with your water company if you’re unsure.
- High Essential Use of Water: This means either:
- Someone in your household has a medical condition that requires a lot of water, or
- You have three or more children under 19 living at home who are in full-time education.
Medical Conditions That Qualify
If a member of your household has certain medical conditions, you may automatically qualify for the WaterSure scheme. These conditions include:
- Eczema or psoriasis
- Incontinence
- Abdominal stomas
- Renal failure requiring dialysis at home (note: you won’t qualify if the NHS is already helping with your water costs)
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
If your medical condition isn’t listed, you can still apply, but your water company may ask for additional details from your doctor.
How to Apply for WaterSure
Applying for the WaterSure scheme is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
- Get the Application Form: You can obtain this form from your water supplier.
- Provide Evidence: You’ll need to submit proof of your eligibility, which may include:
- A copy of your benefits award notice.
- A letter from your doctor confirming your medical condition and how it affects your water usage.
Some suppliers accept a stamp from your GP as proof, which is usually free. However, if your supplier doesn’t accept stamps, you may need to pay for a doctor’s certificate, and some companies will reimburse you for this cost.
- Submit Your Application: Send your completed form and any supporting documents to your water company.
When Will You Start Receiving Help?
If you qualify for the WaterSure scheme, your reduced bill will take effect from the start of the billing period in which you applied. If your water service is provided by one company and your sewerage services by another, your water company will inform the sewerage company so they can adjust your charges accordingly.
Keep in mind that you may need to reapply or provide proof of your ongoing eligibility each year. Your water company will notify you if this is necessary.
What to Do If You No Longer Qualify
If your circumstances change and you believe you no longer qualify for help under the WaterSure scheme, it’s important to inform your water company. Your support will end at the conclusion of the current billing period.
Additional Resources
If you need further assistance with your water bills, or want to learn more about switching to a water meter, check out the following resources:
The WaterSure scheme can provide significant relief for those facing high water bills due to specific needs. If you think you might qualify, don’t hesitate to reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat for more information. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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