2 minute read
Check water bills warning
New ‘smart’ water meters being fitted to homes have led to “massive” rises in bills, people in South Molton have reported. Some said they were not given any notice by South West Water (SWW) that their existing meters would be replaced, meaning they were unable to take a reading before it was swapped out.
Maddy Tyler says she was billed £3,020 - reduced to £37.50 a month after she called SWW, while others said they were told there must be a water leak when they complained. Dave Winter (opposite page) told BBC Spotlight, “Our latest bill came to £260 despite normally paying about £40. We’re very careful with water, the trouble is South West Water are not.”
His bill was reduced to £64 after they complained.
Mr Winter said they weren’t told about the meter change, so didn’t have a chance to take a final reading.
The water company says the new meters (right) are part of their ‘Green Recovery Programme’ to manage water use more efficiently. It says information is being sent to residents, and that final meter readings would be taken during the installation, with the new one starting at zero.
Mr Winter urged other residents to check their meters and their bills, especially if they pay by direct debit. He featured on BBC Spotlight on July 8th in a bid to raise awareness of the issue.
If you think you’ve been incorrectly billed, you can contact South West Water on 0344 346 2020 on message them on WhatsApp.
