Can I switch business water suppliers in the UK?

Yes, UK businesses can switch water suppliers to potentially get better rates and services.

Since the deregulation of the water market in England in 2017, all non-household customers — including businesses, charities, and public sector organisations — have been able to choose their water supplier. This means you're no longer tied to your regional supplier and can shop around for better pricing, improved customer service, or consolidated billing.

In Wales, eligibility is more restricted. Businesses can only switch water suppliers if they use more than 50 megalitres of water per year. If your business operates across both England and Wales, your eligibility may depend on usage and location.

To switch suppliers, you'll usually need:

• Your Supply Point Identification Numbers (SPIDs)

• A recent water bill

• Details of your current water usage

What is the Open Water Market and how does it work?

The Open Water Market was introduced to bring competition into the non-household water sector in England. It allows eligible organisations to choose their water retailer — even though the physical water supply still comes from the regional wholesaler.

Wholesalers (like Thames Water or Severn Trent) remain responsible for pipes and infrastructure, while retailers handle billing, customer service, and account management. This means you can switch suppliers without any disruption to your water supply.

The market is regulated by Ofwat and operated by MOSL (Market Operator Services Ltd), ensuring transparency and fairness.

Switching suppliers won’t involve any physical changes to your pipes or infrastructure. The new supplier will take over the billing and customer service, while your water will still be delivered by the regional wholesaler. It’s important to compare not just pricing, but also billing formats, support availability and contract terms.

At Clear Utility Solutions, we can help you compare business water suppliers and support you through the switch, whether you're looking for better rates or a more responsive service.