An immediate hosepipe ban has sprung into force in parts of London due to the effects of a record-breaking summer. Affinity Water, which supplies Uxbridge, Harrow and Feltham, among other parts of the capital and the wider South East, has introduced restrictions to curb current high water demand.
Why has the ban been introduced?
An update posted on Affinity Water's website states that although the area experienced wetter autumn and winter than average, a warm spring and hot summer have led to groundwater levels dropping to low levels. The provider is also receiving less water than usual from the Grafham Water reservoir, which supplies about 10 per cent of the total amount. Demand for water has increased between 20 and 30 per cent this summer, according to the company.
Other London operators are yet to follow suit, meaning households served by Affinity Water are currently the only ones facing restrictions. SES Water, which supplies South London households near the Surrey border, said it does not expect to introduce a ban this summer. Thames Water said it has seen a "significant" rise in water demand during recent heatwaves but has not yet hinted at a ban, while Essex and Suffolk Water, which supplies homes in Barking, Romford and surrounding areas, has not provided an update.
What are the specific rules?
Affinity Water has informed customers that they are under immediate restrictions while the temporary usage ban (TUB), more widely known as a hosepipe ban, is in place. It means Londoners supplied by the provider cannot use a hosepipe for: watering gardens, washing cars, cleaning windows and patios, filling swimming and paddling pools, and using jet washers.
Who is exempt from the hosepipe ban?
Customers who are on the priority services register or water sure tariff are exempt from the hosepipe ban, along with blue badge holders. This applies to some older customers, some with disabilities, and those on Universal Credit, Income Support, or Child Tax Credit. Although these customers are not required to comply with the ban, they are still asked to avoid using water where possible. Residents who have newly laid turf are also allowed to water their lawn with a hosepipe for 28 days after it's been laid. The same rules apply when you have recently sown grass seed. Contractors are permitted to use water for essential building activities, such as mixing cement, but not for cleaning paths or equipment.
Should you report neighbours for ignoring the ban?
Affinity Water hasn't provided any specific guidance on whether you should report neighbours who appear to be ignoring the ban. The company said it is not looking to catch anybody out, but if the same person continues to use a hosepipe after being made aware, then it may take further action. During previous hosepipe bans, other companies across the UK, such as South West Water, have encouraged people to report breaches.
