Ofwat is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage sector in England and Wales. It sets the price limits companies can charge, monitors their performance, and enforces the standards customers are entitled to.
What it does
Because household customers can’t switch water supplier, regulation is what protects you. Ofwat oversees the Guaranteed Standards Scheme (which sets minimum service levels and automatic compensation) and holds companies to account. For help with an individual complaint, the Consumer Council for Water is the body to contact.
When to turn to it
Turn to Ofwat’s website to understand your rights as a water customer and the standards your company must meet.
How to reach them
Visit ofwat.gov.uk. See also our Water page.
Source
Ofwat (ofwat.gov.uk). Reviewed: 3 September 2026.