What to do about your water bill when you move house

Tell your water company when you're moving and where to. You can't choose your water company; it depends on where you live, so your new home may have a different one.

When
2 to 4 weeks before you move
How long
About 10 minutes
Cost
Free

What you'll need

  • Your water account number
  • Your move date and new address
  • A meter reading, if your home has a water meter

What to do

  1. Tell your current water company

    Most have a "moving home" form online. If you have a water meter, give at least 5 working days' notice so they can arrange a final reading.

  2. Check who supplies your new home

    If you're staying in the same region, give your company the new address and they'll move your account. If it's a different region, you'll need to set up with the company there.

  3. Read the meter when you move in

    If the new home has a water meter, take a reading as soon as you arrive and give it to the water company.

If you skip this

If your water company doesn't know you've gone, you can be charged for water used at your old home after you left.

Where to do it

Questions people ask

Can I switch water company to get a better price?
No. Household water is supplied by one company for each area.
Can I do this by letter?
Yes. Your checklist includes a ready-made letter to your water company.

This is one job. There are about twenty more.

Tell us when and where you're moving and get the full list, in the order to do it.

Build my checklist

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Facts last checked on 11 October 2026 against Citizens Advice: Moving home and water bills. Rules and prices change, so check the official source before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.