Charges for Water and Sewerage Services to Non- Household Premises

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1 Charges for Water and Sewerage Services to Non- Household Premises

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3 CONTENTS 1 SCOPE OF THIS CHARGES SCHEME DEFINITIONS INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHUMBRIAN WATER Contacting Northumbrian Water Complaints LIABILITY FOR CHARGES General Liability Common Supplies New Occupiers Surface water drainage liability where water supplies are turned off VAT Liability for other charges WATER SUPPLY CHARGES Defining the Class of Customer for Charging Measured Water Charges Unmeasured Water Charges Leakage Allowances for Water Allowance for Water Used for Firefighting Purposes SEWERAGE AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL CHARGES General Information about Sewerage Charges Measured Sewerage Charges Leakage Allowances for Sewerage Unmeasured Sewerage Charges Chargeable Area Reduced Charges In Relation To Surface Water Drainage TRADE EFFLUENT CHARGES General Information on Trade Effluent charges Structure of Trade Effluent charge Determining Trade Effluent Volumes Determining Trade Effluent Strengths Other Information Relating to Trade Effluent Charges PAYMENT OF CHARGES When to Pay Charges How to Pay Charges Payment Discounts Payment by Landlords Customers who struggle to pay their charges Collection of Outstanding Charges Other Payment Conditions METERS AND METERING Metering Information About Meters Meter Reading and Billing MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES Introduction Conditions Applying to Miscellaneous Charges Attendance On Site By Northumbrian Water Technicians At Customer Request Damage to Northumbrian Water Apparatus Cleaning And Blockage Clearance Of Private Drains And Sewers Charges for Meter related activities Billing Assess or Revise Trade Effluent Consent Other Services APPENDIX A NON-HOUSEHOLD CHARGES 2016/ Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household

4 1 SCOPE OF THIS CHARGES SCHEME Charges scheme Scope of charges scheme Contents of charges scheme (1) This Charges Scheme is made by Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL) under the provisions of the Water Industry Act (2) This Charges Scheme sets out NWL s end customer retail charges and, terms and conditions applicable to non-households in the Northumbrian Water region for the charging year 2016/17. (3) This Scheme shall come into effect on 1 April 2016 and shall remain in force until revoked, amended or modified by NWL. (4) It explains how charges are calculated, what the charges are, and states the necessary legal requirements and responsibilities for both non-household customers and Northumbrian Water. (5) For similar information relating to previous years, reference should be made to the Charges Schemes of the year concerned. (6) NWL acts as a water and sewerage undertaker in two separate regions of England: (a) The Northumbrian Water (NW) region in North East England (i) Water and sewerage services are provided across the region, except for an area around Hartlepool where water services are provided by Hartlepool Water. (ii) For water charges for customers served by Hartlepool Water, reference should be made to their charges scheme. NWL operating regions (b) The Essex & Suffolk Water (ESW) region in South East England (i) ESW provides water services only in areas of Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Greater London. (ii) Sewerage services in these areas are provided by either Anglian Water Services Limited or Thames Water Utilities Limited. For charges related to these sewerage services reference should be made to their respective charges schemes. (iii) ESW may collect sewerage service charges on behalf of and as agents for Thames Water Utilities Limited within parts of ESW, and these charges will be shown on the same bill as the ESW water charges. Applicability of this document to NWL operating regions Publication of documents and information (7) The provisions of this document apply to the Northumbrian Water operating region. Any references to NWL, Northumbrian Water or NW should be used interchangeably. (8) This Charges Scheme as well as other leaflets and information are published on our website, at the address given below, or on request by contacting Northumbrian Water. Northumbrian Water Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 1

5 (9) All properties using a volume of water greater than 5,000 cubic metres per year may choose a different licensed water retailer than Northumbrian Water. In this case: Retail Competition (a) Northumbrian Water will still provide wholesale water and sewerage services to the property. Wholesale charges will be charged to the retailer, and the charges stated in this document will no longer apply to the property. (b) Charges will be applied to the property according to the charges set by the customers chosen licensed water retailer. (c) Northumbrian Water s charges for wholesale services can be found in the NWL Wholesale Charges Scheme, published on the website or available on request. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 2

6 2 DEFINITIONS (10) A number of terms are used throughout this scheme; they normally have the following meanings: (a) water services charges means a charge or any combination of charges for water supply, and sewerage and sewage disposal services; (b) supplied property relates to water services and means any property which benefits from or is; (i) receiving a supply of water or; (ii) occupied by a person having the use of or right to use or benefit of facilities (whether or not for the benefit of the property) in connection with Northumbrian Water's water supply function; (c) connected property relates to sewerage services and means any property which benefits from or is; (i) drained by a sewer or drain connecting either directly or through an intermediate sewer or drain with a public sewer or sewage treatment works provided by Northumbrian Water or; (ii) occupied by persons having the use of or right to use or benefit of facilities (whether or not for the benefit of the property) which drain to a sewer or drain so connecting; Definition of standard terms (d) customer means in the case of water services, the Consumer, as defined in Section 93 (1) of the Water Industry Act 1991 and in respect of other services means the person for whom a service is performed, facilities provided or right made available in pursuance of Northumbrian Water's water supply or sewerage and sewage disposal functions (without prejudice to the foregoing this means the person provided with or benefiting from water supply or sewerage or sewage disposal); (e) occupier bears the same meaning as the word occupier in Section 144 of the Water Industry Act 1991; (f) hereditament, valuation list and valuation officer shall have the meanings assigned to them by Section 115 (1) of the General Rate Act 1967 as if that Act remained in force; (g) property and premises means the hereditament or if there is no hereditament it is land, any interest in land or any easement or right in, on, under or over land; (h) "household property" means premises in which, or in any part of which, a person has his home and the principal use of the premises is as a home. For mixed-use premises where the principal use of the premises is in question; the premises will be defined as non-household where both the household part of the premises is dependent in some way upon the non-household part and the premises are liable for business rates or exempt from business rates; Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 3

7 (i) (j) non-household property means premises which are not household premises; occupied property means: (i) For a non-household property, where the premises; remain a connected property, or a supplied property as defined in paragraph (10), and; are being used for any purpose and are benefitting from a water or sewerage service provided by Northumbrian Water. (k) site means the boundary of a single set of premises, joined together for water and / or sewerage charging purposes. (i) The premises can consist of co-located buildings, other similar structures and/or land which have adjoining boundaries or which are separated only by transport infrastructure and a single customer occupies the premises and is liable for water services charges in respect of those premises (common occupation co-located premises). (ii) Transport infrastructure includes public highways, railways, other public rights of way and watercourses. Co-located premises with constituent parts that are separated from each other by anything other than transport infrastructure and its directly associated land cannot be joined together for charging purposes. Likewise, colocated premises that are separated by a combination of common land and transport infrastructure cannot be joined together for charging purposes because of the existence of common land. (iii) Where a customer has co-located premises, and which satisfy the common occupation co-located premises criterion (and are therefore to be regarded as a single set of premises); (l) the water consumption to this single set of premises can be added together to determine whether the threshold for eligibility for non-household retail competition is met; and the water consumption to this single set of premises can be added together to determine whether the threshold for the Large User Water and / or Sewerage Tariff is met; and the chargeable area will be based on the site. domestic foul sewage means discharge of waste water from customers premises that has been used for domestic purposes; (m) trade effluent has the same meaning as in the Water Industry Act 1991, s141, that is: (i) means any liquid, either with or without particles of matter in suspension in the liquid, which is wholly or partly produced in the course of any trade or industry carried on at trade premises; and (ii) in relation to any trade premises, means any such liquid which is so produced in the course of any trade or industry carried on at those premises, Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 4

8 (iii) but does not include domestic sewage. (n) trade premises also has the same meaning as in the Water Industry Act 1991, s141, that is: means any premises used or intended to be used for carrying on any trade or industry, subject to the qualifications mentioned in subsection (2) thereof. (o) rateable value means the net annual value shown on the valuation list made under Section 67 General Rate Act 1967 that was applicable at 31 March 1990 for households, or the amount shown on the valuation list made under Section 41 or 52 of the Local Government Finance Act 1998 for non-households; (p) retailer or licenced retailer means an organisation licenced under the Water Industry Act 1991 s17 to provide retail services to non-household properties eligible for competition. (11) In this Scheme words in the singular shall include the plural and vice-versa except where the context otherwise requires. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 5

9 3 INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHUMBRIAN WATER 3.1 CONTACTING NORTHUMBRIAN WATER (12) Information about Northumbrian Water can be obtained from our website at or by contacting us using the details below. (a) In writing: Other information and contact details Water quality information Northumbrian Water Customer Centre PO Box 300 Durham DH1 9WQ (b) By Telephone (13) Water quality information is available free of charge on our website. (14) Water quality sampling results may be inspected and a print out given. This service is free to residents for samples taken within their supply zone. 3.2 COMPLAINTS (15) We aim to deal with queries and complaints speedily and satisfactorily. However, if you are unhappy with our response, you should write to the address below for a review of the decision: Contact details for Northumbrian Water s complaints team Customer Care Review Team Northumbrian Water Ltd PO Box 200 Durham DH1 9WG Telephone: Website: (16) If you remain dissatisfied with the way your complaint has been handled, you may refer the matter to the Consumer Council for Water which will act on your behalf. Their address is: Contact details for CCWater s complaints team Consumer Council for Water 1st Floor Victoria Square House, Victoria Square, Birmingham, B2 4AJ Telephone: Fax: enquiries@ccwater.org.uk Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 6

10 4 LIABILITY FOR CHARGES 4.1 GENERAL LIABILITY Chargeable properties Liability for charges Multiple customers Landlord responsibilities (17) Water charges will be applied to any supplied property and sewerage charges to any connected property, as defined in section 2. (18) Liability to pay charges is confined to those persons who are occupiers within the meaning of Section 144 of the Water Industry Act 1991, save in those circumstances where the Act itself otherwise provides. The meaning of occupier is essentially similar to that used in the field of rating, as elucidated in case law. (19) In most landlord and tenant situations the result will be that it is the tenant who is to be charged as occupier and not the landlord. The significant exceptions include the case of holiday lets, the case of lodgers and bed and breakfast accommodation, where the occupation of the tenants is too transient. In such cases the landlord will be treated as being in occupation. (20) Where more than one person is the customer in respect of a single supplied property, or connected property, then each such customer shall be jointly and severally liable for all charges arising in respect of that supplied or connected property and Northumbrian Water may collect all charges in respect of the supplied property or connected property from any one of the said customers. (21) Section 144C of the Water Industry Act (when it is brought into force and subject to any transitional provisions) will require the owner of residential premises which are occupied by one or more persons other than the owner, and not by the owner, to arrange for Northumbrian Water to be given information about the occupiers. (a) If the owner fails to supply the required information they become jointly and severally liable for water and sewerage charges. (b) In preparation for the legislation coming into force landlords are requested to use the water industry s tenant address portal ( to register details of new tenancies and those liable for water and sewerage charges at their properties County Court - fee recovery from defendant Disconnection of unmeasured supplies (22) If Northumbrian Water takes action through the County Court to recover outstanding debts, Northumbrian Water may recover costs and fees from the defendant in accordance with the rates stipulated by the Ministry of Justice as varied from time to time. (23) Where a customer requests the disconnection of an unmeasured supply that also serves other customers, he must first install a separate supply so that his disconnection can be carried out unless agreed otherwise by Northumbrian Water. 4.2 COMMON SUPPLIES Liability when benefitting from a service (24) Where a customer or property benefits from a water or sewerage service indirectly via or from another property, Northumbrian Water may charge the occupiers of either or both properties for the supply of water and sewerage Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 7

11 services on same basis as would apply if both properties were provided with separate services. (25) If services provided to one property are used by the occupier of another property or for the benefit of another property, these services must be metered. Northumbrian Water can recover from the occupiers of either or both properties the costs of any services provided prior to their being metered. Limitations on common supplies Common metered supplies (26) Northumbrian Water requires all supplies to new or redeveloped properties to be separate metered supplies and the requirements of section 64 of the Water Industry Act 1991 will apply. Where a common supply exists due to historic reasons or where it is not practicable to install separate supplies, paragraph (27) will apply. (27) In relation to properties that have a metered water supply connection which supplies more than one property in different occupancies, each customer shall be held jointly and severally liable for water and sewerage charges. Charges will be recoverable under one of the following conditions: (a) Northumbrian Water may make an agreement, known as a Common Billing Agreement, with the Owners, Property Management Company or other party to accept liability for the payment of: Common billing agreements (i) the metered water supply charges for all the properties supplied through the common meter, unless agreed otherwise by Northumbrian Water; (ii) Plus: all sewerage services charges due in respect of all the properties supplied through the common meter, including for periods when the properties are unoccupied. Liability for charges where a common billing agreement does not exist Installing separate supplies (b) In all other situations, Northumbrian Water reserves the right to apply the most appropriate form of charge to all properties supplied or connected through the single metered water supply connection for water and sewerage services received. This may take the form of apportionment of the measured charge, or any other form of charge set out in this charges scheme and will be chosen by Northumbrian Water. (28) Either property owners or the occupiers of such properties may opt, at their cost, to have a separate metered supply installed to each property, if technically possible, which would enable all charges to be made direct to the occupiers. Where the occupier of a property is not the owner; the owner must confirm his agreement for a separate supply to be installed and his understanding as to the basis of charge. 4.3 NEW OCCUPIERS New occupiers (29) A new occupier of a supplied or connected property must notify Northumbrian Water of the date they are to become liable for charges and provide all details reasonably required by Northumbrian Water for its charging purposes before they take benefit from the services provided. Northumbrian Water can recover from the occupier the costs of any services that have been provided to that date. Northumbrian Water may withdraw the services it provides to Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 8

12 that property. (30) Existing properties may be charged on a measured or unmeasured basis. Where a property is unmeasured, the customer may request a meter to be installed under the optant metering scheme, as outlined in section 9. Basis of charges (31) Customers planning to move to an existing property within the Northumbrian Water s area of supply may contact Northumbrian Water (details shown in section 3) to obtain information on the basis upon which they will pay charges for that property. 4.4 SURFACE WATER DRAINAGE LIABILITY WHERE WATER SUPPLIES ARE TURNED OFF Waiving charges in special circumstances (32) Charges for water and sewerage services remain due whilst a property is occupied as defined in paragraph (10), unless the following condition applies: (a) If a property is occupied but the water supply to the premises has been turned off by Northumbrian Water, then no water volume or foul sewerage charges will apply. Charges for surface water and highway drainage, if appropriate, will continue to be due. 4.5 VAT VAT VAT Exceptions (33) VAT has been applied to water supply charges to industry since 1 July H.M. Revenue and Customs (HRMC) defines industry as businesses included in Divisions 1 to 5 of the 1980 Standard Industrial Classification. Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to charges to businesses in these categories at the level determined by HRMC. (34) Value Added Tax (VAT) will be charged to all non-household customers unless Northumbrian Water has accepted that their activities do not fall within Divisions 1 to 5 of the 1980 Standard Industrial Classification. All nonhousehold customers are asked to complete a VAT declaration when they register with Northumbrian Water as a customer. 4.6 LIABILITY FOR OTHER CHARGES Standby supply agreements (35) When a customer chooses an alternative or additional supply to that provided to the site from the Northumbrian Water mains supply and requires Northumbrian Water to provide facilities that would enable the customer to take additional supplies on an intermittent basis or that would serve as an emergency or standby provision, Northumbrian Water may require that the customer enter into an agreement to pay such additional sums as may be necessary to ensure that the costs of providing such facilities are met. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 9

13 5 WATER SUPPLY CHARGES 5.1 DEFINING THE CLASS OF CUSTOMER FOR CHARGING Liability for water charges (36) All customers, as defined in paragraph (10), are liable for Northumbrian Water s charges for water. (37) There are two classes of customer; Types of customer Levels of tariffs Changing to being charged on a measured basis (a) measured, where the supply of water is charged by reference to volume, and (b) unmeasured, where the supply of water is not charged by reference to volume, (38) The structure of charges applied for each class is set out in this section, and the level of each charge is detailed in Appendix A. (39) Properties charged on an unmeasured basis may become charged on a measured basis either by choosing to do so, or by being required to do so as detailed under section MEASURED WATER CHARGES (40) The standard measured annual charge will consist of: (a) A fixed charge based on size of each meter installed, plus; (b) A charge made on the volume of potable water recorded through each meter. This charge will be based on one of the following tariffs as set out in and 5.2.2: (i) Standard water tariff Structure of measured charges (ii) Focus20 tariff; (iii) FocusExtra tariff; (iv) FocusPlus tariff, plus (c) A charge made on the volume of non-potable water recorded through each meter delivering water through the Teesside Industrial Raw Water System as set out in (41) All properties will be charged for potable water on the standard water tariff unless one of the focus tariffs for larger users apply as detailed in section Standard water tariff Standard water tariffs (42) The standard water tariff charge is produced by multiplying a rate in the pound per cubic metre by the total the total consumption recorded on the meters installed at the property supplying potable water. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 10

14 5.2.2 Focus tariffs (43) In respect of a single site at which at least one meter records or is likely to record annual potable water consumption in excess of 10,000 cubic metres, customers may choose to pay on the basis of one of three optional tariffs: Focus20, FocusExtra or FocusPlus. Large user tariff options (44) These tariffs comprise, in addition to the fixed charge per meter detailed in paragraph (40)(a): (a) A annual fixed charge per site, applied on a daily basis, for the selected large user water tariff, plus; (b) A volumetric charge for the selected large user water tariff, made on the consumption recorded through each meter supplying potable water to the site. (45) Depending on the volume of potable water used at each site, each focus tariff will give the lowest level of charge for a different volume range. These ranges are broadly: (a) Between 20,000 and 55,000 cubic metres annual consumption the Focus20 tariff would produce the lowest charge; Focus tariff ranges (b) Between 55,000 and 165,000 cubic metres annual consumption the FocusExtra tariff would produce the lowest charge; (c) For annual consumption greater than 165,000, the FocusPlus tariff would produce the lowest charge; (i) For any consumption greater than 3,000,000 cubic metres in a charging year, the FocusPlus Super Large User tariff will apply. (46) It should be noted that the standard water tariff would produce the lowest charge for sites where consumption is less than 20,000 cubic metres per year. (47) Properties will be charged on the standard tariff or a focus tariff using the following principles: (a) From 1 April in the charging year, charges will be made using the tariff that would be most appropriate, based on the most recent 12 months potable water consumption data available to Northumbrian Water; Applying tariffs (i) The tariff applied as of 1 April will be charged for the full charging year unless a customer chooses an alternative tariff; (b) Customers may choose to switch to an alternative tariff at any time; (i) If a customer chooses to change tariff, the new tariff will apply from beginning of the next billing period and no retrospective review of charges will take place. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 11

15 5.2.3 Non-potable water tariff (48) The Teesside Industrial Raw Water System delivers non-potable water on a discrete system on Teesside. Non-potable water tariff (49) In addition to the fixed charge per meter detailed in paragraph (40)(a), and any potable water tariffs made under and 5.2.2, the non-potable water tariff charge will be made on the following basis: (a) An annual fixed charge per site, applied on a daily basis, plus (b) A volumetric charge is produced by multiplying a rate in the pound per cubic metre by the total the total consumption recorded on the meters installed at the property that supply non-potable water. 5.3 UNMEASURED WATER CHARGES Structure of unmeasured charge (50) The annual tariff for unmeasured supplies shall be based on the Assessed Tariff as detailed in section Assessed Charges for water (51) The Assessed Tariff for non-households will be a fixed annual charge, applied on a daily basis, based on assumed volumes of water consumption. There are three bands of Assessed Tariff, one of which will be applied to the property. (a) Northumbrian Water will assess the volume of water likely to be used at a property and allocate it to a band. This assessment may take whatever form Northumbrian Water feels appropriate. Assessed charges structures (b) The three bands are: Band 1 Band 2 where water consumption is assessed as less than 150 cubic metres per year; where water consumption is assessed as between 151 and 300 cubic metres per year; Band 3 where water consumption is assessed as greater than 300 cubic metres per year. 5.4 LEAKAGE ALLOWANCES FOR WATER Leakage allowances (52) For non-household customers no allowance for leakage is given against water supply charges. 5.5 ALLOWANCE FOR WATER USED FOR FIREFIGHTING PURPOSES Water for firefighting purposes (53) Where it can be demonstrated that water has been used for firefighting purposes an allowance will be given against a customer s water bill. Any Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 12

16 such claim should be made within 30 days of the date of issue of the bill. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 13

17 6 SEWERAGE AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL CHARGES 6.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT SEWERAGE CHARGES Liability for charges United Utilities and Hartlepool Water Properties covered by the charge Levels of tariffs (54) All customers, as defined in paragraph (10), are liable for Northumbrian Water s charge for sewerage and sewage disposal which is also referred to as a sewerage charge or sewerage services charge. (55) As detailed in section 1, the charges for sewerage and sewage disposal services provided to properties within the water supply areas of United Utilities Water Ltd and Hartlepool Water plc may be included on bills rendered by those Companies and are payable in accordance with the instructions issued by those Companies. (56) Sewerage charges are payable in respect of every connected property whether this service, facility or right is in connection with foul and/or other discharges, including surface water and roof water drainage. (57) If Northumbrian Water is of the view that the costs of billing and recovering charges will exceed the income from certain properties, then the charge may be waived for those properties. (58) The structure of charges applied in for each class is set out in this section, and the level of each charge is detailed in Appendix A. (59) There are three types of sewerage service, defined as follows: (a) Domestic foul sewage as defined in paragraph (10)(l); (b) Trade effluent; Sewerage services (i) Where any discharge is classed as trade effluent strength, as defined in paragraph (10)(m), a trade effluent consent is required and charges will be applied as set out under section 7. (c) Other discharges, including highway drainage, surface water drainage including water from roofs and external areas, and residual discharges including infiltration etc. Other discharges will be referred to as surface water drainage. Where a property is not connected for surface water drainage section 6.6 will apply. (60) There are two classes of customer: Types of customer (a) The measured class, where charges for a property are made by reference to volume. (i) customers receiving and being charged for water supplies through a water abstraction licensed by the Environment Agency will be considered as a measured sewerage customer. (b) The unmeasured class, which are all other properties. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 14

18 6.2 MEASURED SEWERAGE CHARGES Standard Measured Sewerage Charges (61) The annual charge for measured sewerage supplies shall be calculated as follows: (a) For domestic foul sewage a standard volumetric charge will apply. Structure of measured charge The charge is calculated by multiplying the volume of domestic foul sewage by the standard volumetric rate per cubic metre. The volume is determined as set out in section 6.2.2; (b) For trade effluent charges as set out in section 7 will apply.. (c) For other discharges, a charge based upon the chargeable area of the site as detailed in section Determining the volume to charge for domestic foul sewage (62) The volume of domestic foul sewage to be charged will be calculated as: (a) Volume of water entering a property; (i) Volumes will be calculated by reference to the quantity of water registered on the water supply meter and/or water resource authorised licensed abstraction quantity; Calculating the volume of foul sewage to be charged (b) Less any volume given as a non-return to sewer allowance as determined under section (c) Less any volume charged as trade effluent; (63) The volumetric charge for domestic foul sewage is made on the principle that water entering a property will equal water leaving a property, although it is accepted that a proportion of water supplied will not necessarily enter the sewer. (64) A standard 5% non-return to sewer allowance is factored into the calculation of the volumetric rate of charge, which is then applied to the total metered quantity of water for the period in question Non-return to sewer allowances Non-returns allowance definition Non-returns allowance for foul sewerage (65) A non-return to sewer allowance is a reduction to the volume of domestic foul sewage charged, in addition to standard 5% factored into the domestic foul sewage volumetric tariff. A non-return to sewer allowance is included in the calculation of the domestic foul sewage volume on each bill issued for the duration of the allowance. (66) A non-return to sewer allowance against the quantity of water measured at the property may be given at Northumbrian Water's discretion where it can be demonstrated that: (a) there are losses of water in excess of the standard 5% non-return to Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 15

19 sewer allowance due to processes carried on in the property; (b) there is water that is not discharged to a public sewer or treatment works. Calculating nonreturns allowances (67) The amount of non-return to sewer allowance granted will be calculated by facts, estimates, engineering aspects and other formulae, as considered relevant by Northumbrian Water. For the purpose of this charge, the readings on any water meter or meters supplying the properties concerned shall be prima facie evidence of water entering connected properties. (68) The start date of a new non-returns to sewer allowance will be the most recent date of: Start date for new non-returns to sewer allowances Changes nonreturns to sewer allowances Renewing nonreturns to sewer allowances (a) 1 April in the charging year in which a claim for the allowance is made to Northumbrian Water; or (b) the date the premises was occupied by the occupier making the request for an allowance; (69) Where there is an existing non-returns to sewer allowance and the volume of water not returned to sewer changes, Northumbrian Water will determine, at its discretion, the date from which the changes will apply, taking into account the evidence available. (a) Customers should inform Northumbrian Water immediately should any changes occur to their non-returns to sewer volume. (70) When a non-returns to sewer allowance terminates, if there is no contact from the customer requesting a renewal within 12 months of the date of termination, any subsequent request for a non-returns to sewer allowance for the same property will be treated as a new non-returns to sewer allowance and applied as set out in paragraph (68) Large User Tariff for Sewerage Sewerage large user tariff (71) In respect of a single site which is likely to discharge in excess of 50,000 cubic metres of domestic foul sewage on an annual basis (determined in accordance with paragraph (61)(a) above), customers may opt to pay for their domestic foul sewage on the basis of an optional sewerage tariff. This comprises: (i) A annual fixed charge per site, applied on a daily basis; (ii) For volume discharged, a volumetric charge less than that applicable to customers paying on the basis of paragraph (61)(a) above. (iii) A charge for other discharges on the same basis as paragraph 6.5. (72) Properties will be charged on the standard tariff or a large user tariff using the following principles: Applying tariffs (a) From 1 April in the charging year, charges will be made using the tariff that would be most appropriate, based on the most recent 12 months foul sewage discharge data available to Northumbrian Water; Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 16

20 (i) The tariff applied as of 1 April will be charged for the full charging year unless a customer chooses an alternative tariff; (b) Customers may choose to switch to an alternative tariff at any time; (i) If a customer chooses to change tariff, the new tariff will apply from beginning of the next billing period and no retrospective review of charges will take place. 6.3 LEAKAGE ALLOWANCES FOR SEWERAGE Leakage allowances Sewerage allowance period (73) For measured properties, a discretionary one-off allowance may be given against the volumetric domestic foul sewage charge, for water lost through leakage, provided all or part of the leaked water did not discharge into the public sewer. (74) For any sewerage leakage allowance claim made to Northumbrian Water during the period covered by this charges scheme, any claim that is granted will be calculated as follows: (a) The start of the allowance will be calculated as the start of the billing period prior to the billing period in which the leak was repaired; (b) The end of the allowance will be calculated as the date the leak was repaired. Leakage allowance conditions Calculating the amount of allowance granted (75) For any sewerage leakage allowance to be granted, dateable evidence that a leakage repair was carried out must be provided. (76) Where a customer has not responded to contact from Northumbrian Water about a potential leak at their site, Northumbrian Water reserves the right to not grant a leakage allowance for sewerage. (77) The amount given as an allowance will be calculated by facts, estimates, engineering aspects and other formulae, as considered relevant by Northumbrian Water. 6.4 UNMEASURED SEWERAGE CHARGES Structure of unmeasured charge (78) The annual charge for unmeasured sewerage supplies shall be based on the Assessed Tariff as detailed in section Assessed Tariff for sewerage (79) The Assessed Tariff for sewerage consists of two elements: Structure of assessed charges (a) For foul sewage, an assessed charge based on the assessment of the volume of foul sewage discharged to the sewer, as detailed in paragraph (81), plus; (b) For other discharges, a charge based upon the chargeable area of the site as detailed in section 6.5. Properties connected for surface water (80) For unmeasured properties that are connected only for other discharges, but have no domestic foul sewage, only charges as set out under paragraph Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 17

21 drainage only (61)(c) will apply. (81) The domestic foul sewage element of the Assessed Tariff is based on assumed volumes of water consumption. (a) Northumbrian Water will assess the volume of water likely to be used at a property and allocate it to a band. This assessment may take whatever form Northumbrian Water deems appropriate. (b) The three bands are: Structure of assessed charges Applying assessed bands Band 1 Band 2 where water consumption is assessed as less than 150 cubic metres per year; where water consumption is assessed as between 151 and 300 cubic metres per year; Band 3 where water consumption is assessed as greater than 300 cubic metres per year. (c) Where properties are charged for both water and sewerage, the sewerage assessed charge band will be the same as the water assessed charge band. 6.5 CHARGEABLE AREA Defining chargeable area Basis of charge for other discharges Banding of surface areas for charging (82) Other discharges from non-household properties will be charged on the basis of their chargeable area. (a) The chargeable area will be allocated to a band and a fixed charge per year will be applied based on the band into which the chargeable area falls. The band charges are set out in Appendix A. (83) The chargeable area of a customer s site is determined by taking the total area of the site less any defined excluded area that constitutes 10% or more of the total site area. Calculating chargeable area (a) A defined excluded area is any area of land as determined by Northumbrian Water. Examples may include, but are not restricted to, permanently grassed or cultivated area of playing field, farmland, racecourse, sports ground, golf course or parkland. Adding common areas to chargeable area (b) Where there is a common area appertaining to a number of separately occupied premises, the chargeable area for each such premise shall be calculated to include a proportionate part of any such common area, by dividing any such area pro rata to the individual site measurement of each such separate premise. In the case of buildings in multiple occupation, common areas may include areas both internal and external Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 18

22 to those buildings. Adding areas relating to shared car parks to chargeable area Date from which changes to a chargeable area will be applied Disputed measurements (c) Shared car parks will normally be apportioned to separately occupied premises on the principles detailed in paragraph (83)(b). However Northumbrian Water may also enter into an agreement with the site owner or freeholder whereby he would be liable for the charges for the chargeable area of the car park. Should the owner or freeholder default on payment of such charges then Northumbrian Water will recover the charges from the occupiers of the separately occupied premises as described above. (84) When Northumbrian Water agrees a change to a chargeable area measurement that results in a change to a charging band, this change will be applied from the later of the 1 April in the charging year in which the claim was made or the date on which the customer became responsible for charges for that site. (85) Northumbrian Water reserves the right to recover from the customer any costs that it has reasonably incurred in cases where a customer disputes either the Charging Band to which his premises have been allocated or asserts that his premises do not drain any surface or groundwater either directly or indirectly to a public sewer and it is subsequently demonstrated that Northumbrian Water s original assessment of the premises was correct Concessions on charges for surface water drainage for certain community groups Form of concession (86) Customers with properties falling under the criteria defined in paragraph (87)(a) may make an application for charges for that property to be capped to a Band 1 level. Applications will be considered on a case by case basis. (87) To be eligible for a surface water drainage concession the following conditions must apply: (a) The property must be primarily used as a: (i) Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) registered with HM Revenue & Customs; (ii) place of public religious worship; Eligibility for a concession (iii) village or community hall, or community association receiving discretionary relief from their local council for business rates; (iv) meeting place for Scout and Guide Association groups or similar youth organisations. (b) The occupier of the property must: (i) be run as a not-for-profit organisation, i.e. the organisation does not exist for commercial reasons and that it s shareholders, trustees or others do not benefit financially from the activities of the organisation; (ii) be non-governmental and non-political; Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 19

23 (iii) be open to the whole community without discrimination; (iv) reinvest any and all profits in the organisation; (v) not receive all it s funding from local government. (88) When deciding whether a property is eligible for a concession Northumbrian Water may request information to support the application, including but not limited to information demonstrating the items listed in paragraph (87). Start date for concessions (89) Concessions for site based surface water drainage charges will be applied from the most recent date of, the date of occupation, the date that the property became eligible under paragraph (87), or April 1st of the charging year covered by this charges scheme; (90) Northumbrian Water may request proof of eligibility for a surface water drainage concession at any time. If proof of eligibility cannot be provided the concession will be removed from that date. 6.6 REDUCED CHARGES IN RELATION TO SURFACE WATER DRAINAGE General (91) Where it can be demonstrated that a property does not drain any surface water or groundwater either directly or indirectly to Northumbrian Water s systems, reduced charges will be applied as set out in this section. Surface water drainage connection status No sewerage services Reduced surface water drainage charges (92) Reduced charges will not be granted where volumes of surface water draining to Northumbrian Water s sewerage system have been significantly reduced, other than where the chargeable area has been reassessed. Reduced charges on this basis have not been given historically. Careful consideration of any rebalancing of charges between different customer groups, different tariffs and the potential impacts of modification to charges for other discharges is required before changing this position. Such analysis may, or may not, result in an update to charges in future years. (93) Where a property is not connected for either foul sewage or for surface water drainage, no sewerage charges will be payable. (94) Where a non-household customer can demonstrate to Northumbrian Water s satisfaction that the provisions of either points (94)(a) or (94)(b), apply, by providing detailed site plans or such other evidence as Northumbrian Water may reasonably require, charges for highway drainage will be payable as detailed in paragraph (95) or (96). (a) Drainage arrangements made in respect of a site are such that no surface water or groundwater drains directly or indirectly to a public sewer from that property or from any common area appertaining to that property, (b) All surface water or groundwater draining from the site is charged as trade effluent. Measured properties (95) Where paragraph (94) applies, for measured properties the chargeable area Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 20

24 of the site, as defined in section 6.5, will be allocated to a band and 30% of this band charge will be applied to cover highway drainage charges, as set out in Appendix A. Unmeasured properties Applying reduced charges Partial surface water drainage charges (96) Where paragraph (94) applies, for unmeasured properties a reduced fixed charge will be applied, as set out in Appendix A. (97) Rebates as described in paragraphs (95) and (96) will be applied from the later of the 1 st April 2001, the date on which the customer became responsible for charges or the date on which the site was disconnected from Northumbrian Water s systems. (98) Where, for a measured property, the customer can demonstrate to Northumbrian Water s satisfaction that the provisions of either points (98)(a) or (98)(b) apply, by providing detailed site plans or such other evidence as Northumbrian Water may reasonably require, charges will be payable as detailed in paragraph (99). (a) Drainage arrangements made in respect of a site are such that surface water or groundwater from only part of the site drains directly or indirectly to a public sewer from that property or from any common area appertaining to that property, (b) Some surface water or groundwater draining from the site is charged as trade effluent, (99) Where paragraph (98) applies, two chargeable areas will be defined and charged as follows: Basis of charge (a) A chargeable area will be defined for the site as detailed in paragraph (83) for the proportion of the site from which surface water and groundwater drains directly or indirectly to a public sewer, or for which the surface water of groundwater is not charged as trade effluent. 70% of the tariff for the band of this chargeable area will be charged. (b) Plus: a second chargeable area will be measured as the total area of the site. 30% of the band charge for this chargeable area of the site will be applied to cover highway drainage charges. Applying separate highway and surface water drainage charges (100) Rebates as described in paragraphs (98) and (99) will be applied retrospectively as far back as the 1 st April of the charging year in which the claim for a rebate is made How to apply for reduced charges Applying for reduced surface water drainage charges (101) Customers in this category who consider that they may qualify for reduced sewerage charges as a result of these provisions should either write or telephone in the first instance to: Customer Centre Northumbrian Water Limited PO Box 300, Durham DH1 9WQ Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 21

25 Telephone: (102) Customers will be sent a questionnaire for completion. This will include the request for a simple site plan that indicates how the surface water and groundwater from their property is currently drained. This will help the customer to determine whether a claim under the provisions of this section is likely to be successful. If the customer remains of the opinion that he may be entitled to reduced sewerage charges, they should return the completed questionnaire to the above address. Northumbrian Water may require more detailed plans for some properties and reserves the right to visit any property to establish its connection status. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 22

26 7 TRADE EFFLUENT CHARGES 7.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ON TRADE EFFLUENT CHARGES (103) Premises classified as trade premises are liable for all relevant sewerage charges as set out in section 6, including those for other discharges. Charges for domestic and trade effluent strength foul sewage (104) Trade effluent discharges, as defined by section 141 of the Water Industry Act, are subject to different foul sewage charges to those applied to domestic foul sewage discharges. (a) Trade effluent discharges will be charged trade effluent charges as set out in this section, and all other foul sewage volumes will be charged at domestic foul sewage as set out in section 6. (105) Northumbrian Water may make charges for the components of trade effluent as it feels appropriate. (106) Trade effluent charges for reception, conveyance, treatment and disposal are payable by all occupiers of premises discharging trade effluent into public sewers. Liability of trade effluent charges (107) Any trade effluent charges payable are taken into account in the calculation of any volumetric sewerage and sewage disposal charge. (108) If, in the view of Northumbrian Water, the costs of billing, calculating and recovering trade effluent charges will exceed the income, Northumbrian Water may at its discretion, waive the trade effluent charge and charge the customer for sewerage services as if the effluent was not subject to trade effluent consent. Consent charges Non standard trade effluent charges (109) Northumbrian Water commits expenditure to the maintenance of trade effluent consents. This expenditure includes the costs of reviewing consent conditions on a regular basis and the eventual termination of the consents. Northumbrian Water levies a charge for determining new consent conditions and revised consent conditions if the trader seeks the variation, including costs associated with any referral to the Environment Agency. These charges are set out in section 10. (110) Any additional expense incurred or likely to be incurred by Northumbrian Water in connection with the reception or disposal of constituents of specified trade effluents may be recovered in addition to those set down below. 7.2 STRUCTURE OF TRADE EFFLUENT CHARGE (111) Standard unit charges for trade effluent will apply, comprising the following elements;. Structure of trade effluent charge (a) Standard Unit Charge Elements (i) A Reception and Conveyance Charge per cubic metre - 'R' (ii) A Volumetric Treatment Charge per cubic metre - 'V' (iii) An Additional Volumetric Charge per cubic metre, where biological Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 23

27 treatment applies - Bv (iv) A Biological Treatment Charge per cubic metre (standardised see (115) below) - 'B' (v) A Sludge Treatment and Disposal Charge per cubic metre (standardised see (115) below) - S (112) A charge is made for the individual service elements relevant to the receiving treatment works to which the discharger s effluent is conveyed and this is subject to a minimum charge. The levels of the standard unit charge elements for the current charging year, as well as the minimum charge, are shown in Appendix A of this Charges Scheme. Discharge strength (113) The charges made take into account the strength of the discharge in relation to Northumbrian Water's average regional strength factors. The formula used in the calculation of individual charges is set out below; 'R', 'V', Bv, 'B' and 'S' being calculated in accordance with paragraph (111)(a). (114) Regional Formula c = R + V + Bv + Ot Os B + St Ss S (115) Where: c = Total Charge per cubic metre of Trade Effluent; Trade effluent tariff formula R = V = Bv = B = S = Ot = Os = St = Ss = Regional Reception and Conveyance Charge per cubic metre; Regional Volumetric Treatment Charge per cubic metre; Additional Volumetric Charge for biological treatment per cubic metre; Regional Biological Treatment Charge per cubic metre; Regional Sludge Treatment and Disposal Charge per cubic metre; COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) in mg/l of the trade effluent after one hour quiescent settlement. In rare cases where COD is not applicable, an alternative oxidation parameter will be applied; Regional weighted averaged COD in mg/l of settled sewage. In rare cases where COD is not applicable, an alternative oxidation; parameter will be applied. In 2016/17, the regional weighted average is 315 mg/l; Total suspended solids in mg/l settled from the trade effluent after one hour quiescent settlement; Regional weighted average of suspended solids in mg/l removed from crude sewage by primary settlement. In 2016/17, the regional weighted average is 125 mg/l. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 24

28 7.3 DETERMINING TRADE EFFLUENT VOLUMES (116) The trade effluent discharger may be required to provide apparatus suitable and adequate for measuring and automatically recording the volume of trade effluent to the satisfaction of Northumbrian Water and in accordance with the consent to discharge trade effluent. The volumes of effluent recorded on such a flow meter will be used for charging purposes. Verification of discharge volume Revision of discharge volumes (117) Where such a flow meter has not recorded accurately or has not been provided, Northumbrian Water will determine the volume of trade effluent discharged by any method it feels appropriate. This may include the use of readings taken from incoming water supply meters with allowances for volumetric domestic foul sewerage usage and non-returns to sewer using facts, estimates, engineering aspects and other formulae as considered relevant by Northumbrian Water. (118) Where any change to assessment of discharge volumes has been made this will be applied from the later of the date on which the customer became responsible for charges or the date from which evidence, that is satisfactory to Northumbrian Water, demonstrates the change in discharge volumes. 7.4 DETERMINING TRADE EFFLUENT STRENGTHS Verification of discharge strength Standard trade effluent strengths (119) The trade effluent discharger may also be required to provide apparatus capable of determining and recording the nature and composition of the trade effluent in accordance with the consent to discharge. The results from such apparatus may be used as the basis of the charge. However, where such apparatus has not recorded accurately or has not been provided, Northumbrian Water will determine the quality of effluent by any method it feels appropriate. This may include the use of standard strengths (see paragraph (120)) or analysis of samples taken from the effluent with allowances for domestic elements of effluent as considered relevant by Northumbrian Water. Where charges are to be determined by sampling techniques, Northumbrian Water is prepared to provide the trade effluent discharger with additional samples or duplicate samples at the time of sampling, providing the discharger makes the request for the service in advance. Northumbrian Water may charge the discharger for this service. (120) The need to recover costs incurred in the treatment and disposal of trade effluent has led to the need for a compromise between the costs of sampling and analysis in relation to the total income generated by the discharge. For certain small discharges where the trade effluent discharger has not provided apparatus capable of determining and recording the nature and composition of their effluent, it is uneconomic to analyse individual samples. The concept of the standard regional strength has been introduced for six types of discharge as shown in the table below. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 25

29 Discharge Type Standard Regional Strength Suspended Solids mg/l (St) COD mg/l (Ot) Vehicle washes Launderettes Portable toilet waste 9,000 13,500 Small abattoirs 250 2,250 Small breweries (<20m 3 / day) 80 5,000 Swimming pool filter backwash (121) These values are subject to periodic review. 7.5 OTHER INFORMATION RELATING TO TRADE EFFLUENT CHARGES Capital contributions and special agreements Payment of trade effluent charges Termination of consent Additional expenses Sampling charges Trade effluent disputes (122) If, with the agreement of Northumbrian Water, a trade effluent discharger makes a capital contribution towards the expense of disposing of the discharge, then Northumbrian Water may make an appropriate adjustment to the trade effluent charges. (123) Charges referred to in the preceding clauses of this section shall be payable on demand. (124) Where the trader is in arrears of four weeks or more in payment of the charges specified above, Northumbrian Water may terminate the consent without further notice. (125) Northumbrian Water may require payment from the trader for any additional expenses incurred in connection with the reception and disposal of the trade effluent, beyond those recovered in its trade effluent tariffs. (126) Northumbrian Water will make a charge when it is necessary to resample trade effluent discharges where analysis of the preceding sample has shown that conditions of the trade effluent discharger s consent were contravened. The current level of this charge is shown in the Miscellaneous Charges (see section 10.8). (127) If a customer disputes either the refusal by Northumbrian Water to grant a trade effluent consent or the conditions attached to any consent that may be granted, he may have his case determined by the Water Services Regulation Authority (Ofwat). Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 26

30 8 PAYMENT OF CHARGES 8.1 WHEN TO PAY CHARGES Measured Customers Payment options (measured customers) (128) Measured water, measured sewerage, any fixed charges or surface area related charges are payable in full on demand unless an alternative payment plan is agreed by Northumbrian Water. Customers may elect to pay their charges by our Budget Scheme (monthly by Direct Debit) Unmeasured Customers Payment options (unmeasured customers) (129) The occupier of an unmeasured property is liable to pay water and sewerage charges for each day of their occupation. Bills are issued at the beginning of the financial year on the assumption that the occupier will remain in residence for the whole of the financial year. Charges are due in full on demand unless an alternative payment plan is agreed by Northumbrian Water. Customers may elect to pay their charges: (a) In two half-yearly payments on the due dates printed on the payment slips; (b) By our Instalment Scheme May to February, by Direct Debit Payment by instalment Payment by Instalment No charge for instalments All charges due on failure of payment (130) Where any arrangement has been made to pay a bill by instalments the following conditions apply: (a) No charge is made for the option to pay by instalments. (b) Failure to pay an instalment by the due date causes all outstanding amounts to be due and payable immediately. (i) Failure to pay the charges outstanding in one amount may result in disconnection of the water supply or the issue of a County Court Claim for all unpaid charges Customers entering into any formal insolvency procedure Charges when a formal insolvency procedure occurs (131) Where a Customer enters into any formal insolvency procedure, including Debt Relief Orders, Northumbrian Water may apportion any charges on a daily basis up to the date immediately before the date the relevant insolvency procedure becomes effective ('the insolvency date'). (132) Any apportioned charges after the insolvency date will be payable by the occupier of the property in question and apply from the next day of occupation after the insolvency date. Any such apportioned charges will not fall within the insolvency procedure. The charges will be payable by the occupier on the same payment terms as would apply if the property had been newly connected on that day. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 27

31 8.2 HOW TO PAY CHARGES (133) All payment methods are free of charge unless otherwise stated. (134) Measured and unmeasured customers who elect to pay their charges in accordance with section 8.1 may use any (or any combination) of the payment methods listed below: (a) Make a payment by BACS using the bank details on the back of the bill and by sending a remittance advice to bacs@nwl.co.uk or Northumbrian Water, PO Box 300, Durham, DH1 9WQ. (b) By Direct Debit a choice of payment dates is available, 1st or 15th of the month. A discount is given for payment by this method see 8.3; (c) By PayPoint - payment can be made in cash at any PayPoint agency; (d) Via a Bank at a branch by cash or cheque, or through its on-line banking system. Free of charge at customer s own bank, and at branches of NatWest in the Northumbrian Water region. Other banks may make a charge for the transaction; Available methods of payment (e) At a Post Office - by cash or debit card only, using the payment slip on the bill. (A charge will be made for payments via a Post Office); (f) By Post by cheque or postal order, customers should send their payment to: Northumbrian Water, Customer Centre, PO Box 300, Durham DH1 9WQ. Cheques and postal orders should be crossed and made payable to Northumbrian Water Limited. Post-dated cheques are not acceptable; (g) By Telephone - to pay using a debit or credit card the customer should call the telephone number detailed on the bill; (h) By Internet - payment can be made online, either through a customer s own on line banking facilities or via our web site address, Payments by credit card (135) An additional charge will be made for payments made by credit card. 8.3 PAYMENT DISCOUNTS Direct debit discount (136) Where payment for water and/or sewerage services is made to Northumbrian Water by direct debit, a fixed annual discount for each service received will be credited to their account. 8.4 PAYMENT BY LANDLORDS Payment by landlords (137) Subject to the provisions of the Water Industry Act 1991 and except where provided by agreement with Northumbrian Water to the contrary, the charges referred to in paragraph 8.1 are payable by the occupiers of properties. However, where a number of tenanted properties are in one ownership, savings in billing and collection costs may be possible if the owner will agree to pay the charges in respect of all the properties. Northumbrian Water is therefore prepared to consider agreements with owners for the payment of Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 28

32 unmeasured water services charges due on tenanted properties under which allowances may be given, subject to payment on time. (138) Notwithstanding such arrangements, occupiers of properties remain the customers of Northumbrian Water, landlords being responsible for collecting charges due on the basis set out in this Charges Scheme. (139) In the event of the owner defaulting on the above arrangements, then the full charges may be recovered by Northumbrian Water from the occupier. (140) The arrangements referred to above also apply in respect of the sewerage and sewage disposal services charges levied by other water companies on behalf of Northumbrian Water. The water companies have their own arrangements related to their water supply charges. 8.5 CUSTOMERS WHO STRUGGLE TO PAY THEIR CHARGES Payment difficulties (141) Northumbrian Water will ensure that every attempt is made to work with the customer to secure a reasonable payment arrangement. Customers experiencing payment difficulties can contact Northumbrian Water to discuss alternative arrangements. Information can be obtained from the Customer Centre on COLLECTION OF OUTSTANDING CHARGES Consequence of non-payment Reconnection of non-household properties Charges for payment collection (142) Measured bills are issued on a monthly, quarterly or six monthly basis. Unmeasured bills are issued annually. Following the issue to the customer of a final notice for non-payment of a bill by the due date, the water supply will be disconnected unless payment is received. (143) If a customer fails to honour a reasonable payment arrangement, in accordance with normal commercial practice, Northumbrian Water will disconnect the service in order to protect Northumbrian Water and other customers from further unrecoverable losses. (144) Where a non-household water supply is disconnected for non-payment it will not be reconnected until the customer has made arrangements to pay the amount owing plus the expense of the disconnection and reconnection. (145) If a member of Northumbrian Water s staff has to visit a customer to collect outstanding charges, or payment is received when a member of staff has visited a property to effect disconnection for non-payment, Northumbrian Water may recover its expenses as if the water supply had been disconnected. (146) Northumbrian Water will not disconnect the following premises for nonpayment of water services charges: Disconnection private dwelling houses (including mixed use premises where a person has their home); domestic caravans; houseboats; houses in multiple occupation; residential care homes, nursing homes and residential homes for the Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 29

33 elderly; children s homes and day care centres; schools and other educational establishments; prisons and detention centres; police, fire and ambulance stations. (147) All other premises may be disconnected for non-payment of water services charges. 8.7 OTHER PAYMENT CONDITIONS (148) Northumbrian Water reserves the right to recover bank charges and administrative costs resulting from invalid or dishonoured cheques, standing orders, credit cards or direct debits. Payment charges (149) When payment is made in foreign currency, the exchange rate applicable will be that on the day of receipt of payment. Any shortfall or benefit will be debited or credited to the customer s account accordingly. Commission charges will be deducted from the amount paid. (150) Northumbrian Water reserves the right to claim interest pursuant to the "Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 30

34 9 METERS AND METERING 9.1 METERING Cases when a property charged on an unmeasured basis will move to being charged on a measured basis (151) All new properties will be required to be metered. This includes any connection to be used wholly or partially for supplying water for firefighting purposes. Metered properties (152) Unmeasured non-household customers may opt to have a meter installed under the optant programme detailed in Section (153) Northumbrian Water may require some properties to have a meter installed as detailed under the selective metering programme as detailed in Section Optional Metering Opting for a meter for non-household properties (154) Non-household customers who are currently unmetered may also apply for the installation of a meter. A charge is payable unless the property already has an existing boundary box. The current level of charge appears in the Miscellaneous Charges in section 10. The meter will be installed within 15 working days of receiving the customer s payment Selective Metering Selective metering of nonhousehold properties (155) It is our policy to meter business properties wherever practicable and we have a programme to selectively meter the majority of those non-household properties that are currently unmeasured. This includes non-household properties whose use of water is mainly or solely for household purposes and mixed use (part household and part non-household) premises where the nonhousehold part is the principal use of the premises supplied. Northumbrian Water may also require the owner/occupier to take water by meter when the property is in multiple occupation i.e. a guest house, nursing home, lodgings etc. (156) There is no charge for the meter installation in such cases. 9.2 INFORMATION ABOUT METERS Preferred locations for water meters Ownership of meters and remote reading devices (157) The preferred location for the meter installation is in an existing boundary box. If an existing boundary box is not available, the water meter will normally be fitted in Northumbrian Water s next preferred location according to Northumbrian Water s meter location policy in force at the time of installation. (158) The water meter and any remote reading device, if fitted, are the property of Northumbrian Water. (a) Northumbrian Water shall be responsible for the maintenance of the meter. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 31

35 (b) Where a meter has been fitted either externally within the boundary of the customer s property or internally, the customer must allow Northumbrian Water or its representatives reasonable access for the purposes of reading the meter, maintaining it and replacing it when necessary. The customer will have a duty of care in respect of the meter and meter chamber in these circumstances. (c) If the meter is installed other than within the boundary of a customer s property, the maintenance, access and safety of the meter will solely be the responsibility of Northumbrian Water. Accuracy of meters Tampering with meters Changing meters by Northumbrian Water Changing meters at the customers request (159) In respect of the accuracy of meters, testing of meters, expenses of testing, method of proof and affect of meter reading, notice of vacation and liability for charges, and offences of tampering with meters, the requirements of the Water Industry Act 1991 and the Water (Meters) Regulations 1988 (SI1998/1048 or subsequent amendments thereof), will apply. (160) It is an offence to tamper with or remove a water meter without the express permission of Northumbrian Water, as set out in sections 175 and 176 of the Water Industry Act. Northumbrian Water reserves the right to charge a customer should their meter or remote reading device be removed or tampered with in any way. (161) Northumbrian Water may exchange an existing meter for one of a different size, if in its view this is more appropriate to a customer s circumstances. No charge will be made for this. (162) Where a customer asks for an existing meter to be replaced with a meter of different size or requests the meter and/or its associated remote reading device be relocated, Northumbrian Water will relocate the meter within the limits of its meter location policy and make an appropriate charge to cover the costs of such change. 9.3 METER READING AND BILLING Meter reading frequency and estimated bills Definition of actual reading Amendment of estimated bill Billing periods (163) Meter readings will be taken at such intervals as Northumbrian Water may determine. On occasions when Northumbrian Water does not obtain an actual reading, an account may be rendered on the basis of estimated consumption. (164) An actual meter reading means any reading taken directly from a meter or supplied by any remote reading device associated with a meter. (165) Estimated bills will be amended on the basis of a meter reading supplied by the customer, unless there is reason to doubt the accuracy of this. In the latter case, Northumbrian Water will endeavour to make an appointment to re-visit the property to take a meter reading and, if necessary, check the accuracy of the meter. (166) When a measured bill is raised for a period that commences before 1 April and ends on or after 1 April, the charges shall be apportioned into subperiods on a daily basis between the start of the period covered by the bill and 31 March and the period from 1 April until the end of the period covered by the bill. Each sub-period so apportioned will then be charged at the tariffs Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 32

36 of the relevant charging year. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 33

37 10 MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES 10.1 INTRODUCTION Defining miscellaneous charges (167) Northumbrian Water provides water and sewerage services to our customers, and recovers the costs for these services, on an average basis across all our customers through the standard published charges set out in this Charges Scheme. (168) Where there are services that we carry out for individual customers, we recover the costs for these activities through the Miscellaneous Charges. (169) The types of Miscellaneous Charge, and when they apply are described in this section CONDITIONS APPLYING TO MISCELLANEOUS CHARGES Charges for normal working hours Payment VAT Traffic Management Act Disputes Bonds and Deposits Security Deposits Return of Security Deposit (170) The standard charges quoted apply for works carried out during normal working hours on normal working days under standard conditions. In other instances Northumbrian Water reserves the right to charge on a basis of actual costs, provided the applicant is notified accordingly prior to commencement of the work. (171) Payments for charges in this section may be required in advance unless specified to the contrary. (172) All charges published in this section exclude VAT unless specified otherwise. VAT will be added to the published charge at the appropriate rate where required. (173) Additional charges may be made for traffic management expenses. (174) In accordance with Section 45(6A) Water Industry Act 1991 any dispute between Northumbrian Water and any other person as to the charge in this section may be referred to the Water Services Regulation Authority for determination. (175) In accordance with normal business practice, Northumbrian Water can require, under certain circumstances normally associated with new development, the provision of cash bonds or deposits to secure the provision of services. (176) Following non-payment, disconnection due to non-payment or repeated breach of any terms and conditions of supply in respect of a non-household property, Northumbrian Water reserves the right to demand a deposit of up to one billing period plus 90 days of charges in respect of future estimated charges prior to reconnecting or agreeing to supply. (177) Such a deposit will be held by Northumbrian Water for a period of 12 months and may be used during that period to discharge any outstanding balances due from the customer. On expiry of the 12 month period Northumbrian Water will return the deposit, or such balance that remains, to the Customer Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 34

38 together with interest calculated at the prevailing rate. Charges for additional services (178) In respect of any service performed, facility provided or right made available by Northumbrian Water for which a charge is not applicable elsewhere in this scheme, including CCTV surveys, provision of information and advice, drain cleaning and drainage enquiries, Northumbrian Water may make such charges as it determines appropriate, having regard to the cost of performing the service, providing the facility or making the right available. Payment of such charges may be required in advance, unless specified to the contrary. Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 35

39 10.3 ATTENDANCE ON SITE BY NORTHUMBRIAN WATER TECHNICIANS AT CUSTOMER REQUEST Technician Call Out Charge (179) When a customer requests attendance on site by a Northumbrian Water technician for whatever purpose, the customer will be charged for that attendance. (180) When a customer (or their representative) requests the attendance of a Technician to their property, Northumbrian Water will attend. However, there may be a charge if it's something that can be fixed by or has been caused by you or a third party. So please check carefully before arranging a visit by a technician. Northumbrian Water will also charge for technical and non-technical advice provided on site. (181) There will be a charge for any activity requested that is not related to a fault on our apparatus. (182) When charges do apply, they will be secured in advance at the point of contact. (183) Charges per visit are as follows: (a) During Normal Working Hours ( Mon-Fri only): (i) Minimum of one hour (inclusive of travelling time to the incident): (b) Outside Normal Working Hours and Public Holidays: (i) Minimum of 2 hours (inclusive of travelling time to the incident): (c) Additional hourly charge for each subsequent hour or part hour: (184) The charge does not apply if the fault is covered under our supply pipe policy. (185) If a repair team are subsequently required, all work carried out by them will be in addition to the Technician fixed charge above, this will be at actual cost inclusive of overheads excepting where it is covered by the fixed cost work covered elsewhere in these charges, (additional costs could include plant, equipment, hire charges, contractor charges, reinstatement of surfaces and fittings etc.). At cost Installation, renewal, operation and repair of stop tap valves (186) Where a customer requests a visit from a Technician to restore the supply of water to a property using a company stop tap, a charge will be made to cover the cost of this service as set out in paragraph (191). (187) Northumbrian Water will operate, locate or clean a stop tap at the request of a customer, or their representative, and a charge will be applied as set out in paragraph (191). (188) When Northumbrian Water turn off a stop tap no charge will be made. If the customer, or their representative, requests the Technician to wait and turn the supply back on during the visit, or if a return visit is requested, a charge will be made for the technician s time according to paragraph (183). The customer will be Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 36

40 advised that a qualified plumber can carry out the work on his behalf, except for where the stop tap is located in the highway, in which case the customer will be advised to use a Northumbrian Water technician. (189) Where a stop tap is inoperable and the customer requests Northumbrian Water to repair this in less than 20 working days, a charge as set out in paragraph (191). This period of notice may be extended by the application of the Traffic Management Act. Outside of this period, Northumbrian Water will undertake this work at its cost. (190) Where there is no existing stop tap and the customer requests that one be installed, the customer may be required to pay the cost of installation according to paragraph (191). (191) Standard charge to install, renew or repair a stop tap valve belonging to Northumbrian Water where the customer or his agent specifically requests this to be done in less than 20 working days: (a) During normal working hours: (i) No reinstatement: (ii) With reinstatement: (b) Outside normal working hours: (i) No reinstatement: (ii) With reinstatement: Connection of Customers Relaid Supply Pipe (192) Where supply pipe is laid on behalf of the customer: (a) No excavation: (b) No reinstatement: (c) With reinstatement: Other Activities (193) Attendance for commercial activities during normal working hours (tank filling, flow and pressure tests on the network, leakage advice etc.) will be charged at the rates shown in section (194) In addition any water used will be charged the standard volume rate: Pence per cubic meter: Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 37

41 10.4 DAMAGE TO NORTHUMBRIAN WATER APPARATUS (195) Where damage to Northumbrian Water apparatus has occurred, charges will be made to repair the equipment. (196) Repairs to Northumbrian Water apparatus will be carried out by Northumbrian Water staff or approved contractors. (197) All charges will be based on actual costs inclusive of overheads excepting where it is covered by the fixed cost work covered elsewhere in these charges (additional costs could include plant, equipment, hire charges, contractor charges, reinstatement of surfaces and fittings, etc.) CLEANING AND BLOCKAGE CLEARANCE OF PRIVATE DRAINS AND SEWERS (198) When Northumbrian Water cleans or removes blockages from private drains or sewers, Northumbrian Water may make the following charges: (a) During normal working hours (07:00 20:00 Mon to Sat): (b) Outside normal working hours (20:00 07:00 Mon to Sat, Sundays and Bank Holidays: (199) In exceptional circumstances, Northumbrian Water reserves the right to make additional charges. At cost 10.6 CHARGES FOR METER RELATED ACTIVITIES Meter testing (200) A standard charge will be made, as set out below, where a meter test is carried out in accordance with the Water (Meters) Regulations 1988 at the request of the customer and the meter on being tested falls within the prescribed limits of error. (201) Such testing will normally require the removal of the meter from the customer s premises. (a) Meters up to 40mm (including VAT): (b) All other meters: At cost Reading of meters (202) For any meter readings carried out by Northumbrian Water at the request of the customer, which are additional for the standard planned meter reading timetable, charges will be made as follows: (a) Privately owned meters: (b) Northumbrian Water owned meters: Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 38

42 Meter Installations (203) Installation of Meters in Alternative Locations (a) Installation of a new, optant or selective meter in a location other than that defined by Northumbrian Water s Meter Location Policy: (204) Meter Option Installations These charges do not apply to properties metered under optant or selective metering programmes (see section 9). (a) Meter Installation on Existing External Pipework (i) 15mm/20mm meter on Private Land (excluding reinstatement): (ii) 15mm/20mm meter in Public Highway (including reinstatement): (iii) Other meters: At cost (b) Meter Installation in Existing Boundary Box (i) 15mm/20mm: (ii) Other meters: At cost (c) Meter Installation Internal (d) Customer s Contractor Carries out Excavation/Installation Includes up to two separate visits to be made to mark the excavation location and to inspect the boundary box installation and fix the meter where appropriate Where further visits are necessary, these may be charged at rate shown in section No charge Meter Resizing (205) Reduction in Meter Size at Customer s Request: Price on Application All Other Situations (206) All other situations for installation or modification of meters on existing supplies will be charged at cost/on a fixed price quotation basis that has previously been notified to the customer unless specified otherwise. At cost Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 39

43 10.7 BILLING (207) Payment by credit card (a) For all payments made by credit card an additional charge will be made, of 1% of the payment amount. (208) Consequence Of Non-Payment Of Account (a) Where payments fail this requires intervention by Northumbrian Water to resolve the payment, and an charge will be made for this activity in the following cases: (i) Cheque payments that have to be referred back to the account holder: (ii) Unpaid Direct Debit / Credit Card transactions: 4.85 (b) In certain cases where payments have not been made and access is required to a property to ensure that any disconnection allowed does not disconnect properties that cannot be disconnected a charge for the required warrant will be made as follows: (i) Magistrates Forced Entry Warrant: (c) Visit to non-household customer to collect outstanding charges (including any required stop tap operation): (i) Visit carried out during Normal Working Hours ( Mon-Fri only): (ii) Visit carried out outside Normal Working Hours or on a Public Holidays: (iii) Disconnection of non-household premises: At Cost (209) Requests for non-standard bills (a) Where customers or their representatives request copies of bills and/or a statement of charges covering a number of previous charging periods, for example, for the purpose of completing returns to HM Revenue & Customs or providing information to accountants, charges will be made as follows: (i) Requests for copies of previously issued bills (up to 10 bills per charge) (ii) Statement of charges (per statement) (iii) Request for separate bills for water and sewerage services (per bill) At cost 10.8 ASSESS OR REVISE TRADE EFFLUENT CONSENT (210) Charge for determining new or revised consent conditions (a) Without Special Category Effluent: Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 40

44 (b) With Special Category Effluent or other significant parameter: At cost (211) Resample charge: OTHER SERVICES (212) Other services as listed below are available from Northumbrian Water. Charges for these services can be found on our website, on request from Northumbrian Water or in a separate leaflet entitled: 2016/17 Charges Scheme: Other Services. (213) The available other services are: (a) Standpipes (b) Supply of water from Northumbrian Water Depots (c) Disposal Of Septic Tank And Cesspool Contents (d) Water Regulation Inspections (e) Treatment of Tankered Industrial Effluents (f) Fire Hydrants Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 41

45 Blank page Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 42

46 APPENDIX A NON-HOUSEHOLD CHARGES 2016/17 Table 1 Charges relating to Payment Methods Water Sewerage Discounts for payments made by Direct Debit Charges paid by Credit Card 1% of payment amount 1% of payment amount Table 2 Measured charges for water Fixed charge per potable meter per year, by meter size: Tariff one of these will apply Standard Focus20 Focusextra Focusplus 0-24mm mm mm mm mm mm and larger PLUS: Site charge per year 3, , , PLUS: Volume charge per cubic metre FocusPlus Super Large User (volumes greater than 3,000,000m3) Table 3 Measured charges for non-potable water to the Teesside Industrial Raw Water System Fixed charge per non-potable meter per year, by meter size: 0-24mm mm mm mm mm mm and larger PLUS: Site charge per year 13, PLUS: Volume charge per cubic metre Table 4 Measured charges for sewerage Tariff one of these will apply Standard Large User For domestic foul sewage, a volume charge per cubic metre Site charge per year 1, PLUS: Volume charge per cubic metre PLUS for surface water and / or highway drainage: Fixed charge per year See Table 5 See Table 5 PLUS for trade effluent: Charges per cubic meter, as applicable See Table 6 See Table 6 Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 43

47 Table 5 Surface water drainage charges by band Surface water & highway drainage Surface water drainage part Highway drainage part Band 1 - up to 350 m Band to 750 m Band to 1,500 m Band 4-1,501 to 2,500 m 2 1, Band 5-2,501 to 5,000 m 2 2, , Band 6-5,001 to 7,500 m 2 4, , , Band 7-7,501 to 10,000 m 2 5, , , Band 8-10,001 to 15,000 m 2 8, , , Band 9-15,001 to 25,000 m 2 13, , , Band 10-25,001 to 50,000 m 2 24, , , Band 11-50,001 to 75,000 m 2 39, , , Band 12-75,001 to 100,000 m 2 55, , , Band ,001 to 125,000 m 2 69, , , Band ,001 to 150,000 m 2 83, , , Band 15 - over 150,000 m 2 103, , , Table 6 Trade effluent charges per m3 per year Reception Volumetric Biological Volume Biological Sludge Regional average B strength Regional average S strength Minimum Charge per year (per billing period) mg/l 125mg/l Table 7 Unmeasured charges Assessed Tariff bands - one of these will apply Band 1 Band 2 Band 3 For water, a fixed charge per year PLUS: For domestic foul sewage, a fixed charge per year PLUS: For surface water and / or highway drainage, a fixed charge per year See Table 5 See Table 5 See Table 5 Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 44

48 Band Band Band PLUS: Fixed charge for surface water drainage See Table 4 See Table 4 END PAGE Charges scheme 2016/17 : Non-Household Page 45