Water firms upping direct debits of metered customers due to increased lockdown use – check NOW if you're overpaying

• Check your correspondence from the company to see if your direct debit has changed. When a change has been made, you should receive notification from the supplier, so look out for it.
  
  
• If your direct debit has gone up but you'll be using less water going forward, call your supplier. All the water firms we spoke to said they'd adjust estimated direct debits if people know they will use less. But remember, only do this if you know you will be using less than you have been, or you could end up owing the firm money.
  
  
• Keep submitting regular meter readings. That way you'll pay for what you are actually using.
  

It's worth noting that this is all about cash-flow, as if you don't amend your direct debit, you will ultimately pay the same amount over time. It's just firms may be taking more than they need to now, some of which you might have to claim back – and it's better to have the cash in your pocket, rather than the supplier's. 

For more information on how you can reduce your water costs, see our Cut your water bills guide.

If your direct debit was upped and you've paid for more than you've used, all the major firms have confirmed that you can immediately claim this back in cash by calling or emailing them. If you don't want to claim it in cash or don't take any action, it will be used as credit for future bills.

If you're in credit, it should appear on your bill or your online account. If you're unsure, ring your provider and ask.

If you have a water meter and pay by direct debit, water companies estimate your bill based on your previous consumption. Some, such as Northumbrian Water, will use the last 12 months and base your direct debit on that. Others, such as Thames Water, will use the last six months.

If you have used more than the company has estimated, which has likely been the case for many over lockdown, you could owe it money, meaning your direct debit would increase to make up any shortfall, and to cover what it estimates will be a higher usage level going forward. If you've used less than expected, your account could be in credit and your direct debit would be reduced.

Your bill will also be affected by any changes to water rates, with rates across England and Wales falling by an average of 0.5% in April 2021.

Without a water meter, your bill will be based on your home's 'rateable value'. The amount of water used is irrelevant. Check if you could save £100s with a water meter.

All companies offer some sort of help if you're in a tough financial situation. Schemes can range from discounts and repayment plans, to caps and even charity assistance. See how to get help if you're struggling for more.

It's not as simple with energy – but it's worth checking