If you owe us money

If you are having trouble paying your bill and want to reduce or clear your water charges debt - United Utilities can help.

Golden rules

• Don't panic
• Don't ignore the problem
• Don't borrow more money to pay off what you owe, this is unlikely to help
• Make sure you are receiving all of your benefit entitlements
• Contact us and explain any difficulties you might have on 0845 746 1100 if you do not have a water meter, or 0845 746 2222 if you have a water meter, to see what we can do to help.
• Be very careful of fee-charging debt management companies
• Get some professional advice on dealing with your debts. Advice is available free of charge from the Citizens Advice Bureau, independent Money Advisors and the National Debtline.

Money Advice Services

The Citizens Advice Bureau and other money advice agencies can give you free, independent, impartial and confidential advice. Many local authorities have money advisors too. Contact the Citizens Advice Bureau, your local authority, or find a local Money Advisor in the Yellow Pages under "counselling and advice". Make sure the advice is being provided free of charge before you consult with an advisor. 

National Debtline

The National Debtline is a phone help line for people with debt problems. The service is free, confidential and independent. They can give you expert advice over the telephone and send a self-help information pack called "Dealing with your debts" free of charge. They also have a range of factsheets on specific topics. You can call them free of charge on 0808 808 4000. Visit the National Debtline website.

Code of practice and procedure on debt recovery

Our code of practice and procedure on debt recovery explains the help available to you if you are having difficulty paying your water bill.  It also sets out the steps we will have to take if you don't pay your bill.