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As a business, you may receive several bills related to water supply and wastewater disposal. Knowing how these charges are calculated helps you manage your costs effectively.

What affects your water bill?

Your water bill depends on several factors, including:

• size of your water supply pipe - the diameter affects standing charges
• annual unit costs – charges are reviewed every year
• water usage or wastage – the amount of water your business consumes or loses

Metered water charges

If your business has a water meter, your bill will include:

• a variable charge based on the actual volume of water used
• a standing charge based on the size of your supply pipe

Always check your bill to ensure it matches your meter’s serial number and actual readings. Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) charges for all water recorded on the meter, including losses from leaks. For more information, see .

For more information, see .

Unmeasured water charges

If your business does not have a water meter, charges are based on:

• the rateable value of your property
• a fixed standing charge

Bills may be based on estimated or actual meter readings, where applicable. For more information, see .

Sewerage charges

Sewerage (wastewater) charges may appear on either your water bill or your trade effluent bill. These charges are calculated based on:

• incoming water volume minus a non-return to sewer allowance (standard 5%)
• incoming water minus measured trade effluent volume and non-return to sewer allowance
• the rateable value of your premises if unmetered

If your bill is unusually high due to a leak and the leaked water did not enter the sewer system, you may be eligible to apply for a sewerage charge adjustment.

Trade effluent charges

Trade effluent is wastewater from your business processes that is not domestic sewerage. Charges for trade effluent are based on:

• the volume of effluent discharged (metered or calculated)
• adjustments for non-return to sewer allowances, such as steam losses, evaporation, or water used in products
• the strength of the effluent, calculated using the Mogden Formula, which considers treatment costs at sewage works

You may be asked to provide data to help calculate the domestic sewage portion of your discharge. For more information, see .

Key tips for managing your water and wastewater bills

• Regularly check meter readings and bills for accuracy.
• Report leaks promptly to avoid unnecessary charges.
• Understand your allowances and apply for any you qualify for.
• if you have questions about your charges or need to apply for adjustments.