Water Use Restrictions and Water Conservation

Hosepipe bans and non-essential use bans 

Large parts of England and Wales are in drought and water use restrictions have been imposed. There are no restrictions in Scotland but customers across the whole of the UK are encouraged to save water.

MOSL provided a helpful map and a dashboard of what restrictions apply and where. MOSL Drought Map

And here’s our summary of what the restrictions mean based on Ofwat information.

What is a hosepipe ban?

A hosepipe ban (officially called a Temporary Use Ban or TUB) is the most common water restriction you might face as a household. It’s exactly what it sounds like: you can’t use a hosepipe for activities like:

• Watering your garden
• Filling a paddling pool
• Washing your car

You can still water your plants and clean your car, but you’ll need to use a watering can or bucket instead of a hosepipe. These restrictions exist because hosepipes use large amounts of water, often for non-essential purposes.

Breaking the rules during a hosepipe ban can lead to a fine of up to £1,000.

What is a non-essential use ban or NEUB?

A non-essential use ban (NEUB) is a more serious step that water companies can take if dry conditions continue after a hosepipe ban has been introduced. While hosepipe bans mainly affect households, NEUBs specifically target businesses.

If a NEUB is put in place, businesses must stop using water for the following activities:

• Watering outdoor plants on commercial premises
• Filling or maintaining a non-domestic swimming pool or paddling pool
• Filling or maintaining a pond
• Operating a mechanical vehicle washer
• Cleaning any vehicle, boat, aircraft or railway rolling stock
• Cleaning non-domestic premises
• Cleaning windows on non-domestic
• Cleaning industrial plant
• Suppressing dust
• Operating cisterns on unoccupied buildings

General water saving

In addition, water wholesalers have general powers to take action to stop business leaks and water wastage.

There are exemptions and special considerations, however the simple fact is that these restrictions are in place to try and conserve water and maintain supplies so we should all do our bit. There is a Government campaign that is coordinating water conservation actions called Lets Save Water and Waterwise have lots of useful resources for water efficiency.

For detailed help and guidance on business water savings, including potential grant funding, please get in touch with us. Check out our Water efficiency page and our Online enquiry page.