Several UK water companies are taking proactive measures to encourage water conservation as drought conditions persist.
While some are considering potential hosepipe bans, others are confident that restrictions won’t be necessary for the time being.
These companies are offering valuable tips to help customers save water and avoid future water shortages.
Water companies considering potential hosepipe bans
Several water companies have commented on the possibility of a hosepipe ban with some reporting lower water levels than usual.
Welsh Water (Dŵr Cymru)
A Welsh Water spokesperson shared the following regarding current water levels: "Our reservoir levels are slightly lower than the position expected for this time of year due to the recent fine weather, and we are taking our usual actions to manage our water supplies. We currently do not have concerns regarding water resources."
"As we do at any time of the year, we ask customers to be mindful of how they use water and avoid wasting it. Our message is to use as much drinking water as you need, but please don’t waste it. Customers can get advice on how to use water efficiently around the home and garden from our website dwrcymru.com/en/save-water".
Northumbrian Water
Northumbrian Water has signalled that it could be necessary to adopt a hosepipe ban this summer: "During a significant drought, we may need to implement a Temporary Use Ban (or TUB), more commonly known as a 'Hosepipe Ban'."
This suggests that while there’s no immediate hosepipe ban in place, the companies are prepared to introduce restrictions if drought conditions worsen.
Water companies ruling out hosepipe bans for now
Other water companies have almost all but ruled out hosepipe bans and these include:
Severn Trent
Severn Trent, which hasn’t imposed a hosepipe ban in nearly 30 years, remains confident in avoiding one this year: "The Midlands hasn’t had a hosepipe ban in 30 years, and Severn Trent is confident this will continue thanks to ongoing investment including £400m to upgrade pipes."
Anglian Water
Anglian Water also remains confident about avoiding restrictions: "It's all these reasons and more, why we’ve been able to confidently inform customers we’ll be able to avoid a hosepipe ban this summer."
Yorkshire Water
Yorkshire Water has not imposed a hosepipe ban but is still urging customers to conserve water: "It’s still really important to use water carefully so there’s enough for everyone."
United Utilities
United Utilities is also taking a long-term view, ensuring that restrictions are rare: "We believe a hosepipe ban should not occur more than once in 20 years."
Thames Water
Thames Water currently has no hosepipe bans in place and is urging customers to conserve water: "There are currently no water use restrictions in place. We are working hard to help save water to prevent a drought."
National drought conditions
The concerns around hosepipe bans comes after the UK has experienced its driest spring since 1956, with March and April 2025 recording significantly below-average rainfall.
Reservoir levels are notably low in regions such as the north-east and north-west, with national storage at 84%, compared to 90% in April 2022, which could partially explain why water bills are so high.
The Met Office predicts average rainfall and possibly higher temperatures from May to July.
Recommendations for customers
Even without active restrictions, Water UK recommend the following tips to save water to not only conserve water but also help with water bills:
- Using a watering can instead of a hosepipe
- Applying mulch to garden beds to retain moisture
- Opting for drought-tolerant plants
- Fixing leaks promptly
- Taking shorter showers and using water-efficient appliances
For the most current information and specific guidance, it's advisable to visit your local water company's website.
