Answers · UK 2025/26

How do I qualify for a water social tariff?

Water social tariffs (sometimes called WaterSure or company-specific schemes such as 'Aquacare' or 'WaterHelp') reduce water bills for low-income households, particularly those on means-tested benefits or with high essential water use, such as large families or people with certain medical conditions. Eligibility criteria and discount amounts vary by water company, so you must check and apply directly with your own regional water supplier.

Last updated: 2 July 2026Last reviewed: 2 July 2026How we verify

Full answer

Unlike energy, where the Warm Home Discount is a broadly UK-wide scheme, water social tariffs in England and Wales are set individually by each of the regional water and sewerage companies, so eligibility criteria, application processes, and discount levels vary depending on where you live. **Who typically qualifies** Most water company social tariffs target households that are both on a low income (often defined as receiving a means-tested benefit such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support) and facing high water costs relative to that income -- commonly set as water charges exceeding around 3% of household income (sometimes more generous, closer to 5% for water and sewerage combined). Some schemes also consider households without these benefits but with a demonstrably low income. **WaterSure -- for high essential use** WaterSure is a specific scheme (offered by all water companies, sometimes under a different name) that caps water bills for households on a water meter who also receive certain means-tested benefits AND either have three or more children living at home, or have someone in the household with a medical condition requiring high water use (such as certain skin conditions, or conditions requiring dialysis at home). This is different from a general low-income social tariff and has its own separate eligibility test. **How to apply** You apply directly to your own water company (not a government body), usually via an online application form on their website, and will typically need to provide proof of the benefits you receive and, for WaterSure, evidence of your medical condition or number of children. Water companies fund these schemes through a small contribution from all other customers' bills (a cross-subsidy), rather than general taxation. **Combining with other support** A water social tariff can be claimed alongside other cost-of-living support such as the Warm Home Discount for energy, council tax reduction, and Universal Credit -- there's no reason receiving one prevents you claiming another if you meet each scheme's separate criteria. **Practical tip** Search '[your water company name] social tariff' or 'WaterSure' to find your specific supplier's scheme and application form, since there is no single national portal -- your water company can be identified from a recent bill or via the Discover Water website, which lists all regional suppliers.