Water Glossary

Explore comprehensive water glossary, featuring clear definitions of key terms related to water billing and management.

A

AMR (Automated Meter Reading)

Technology that automatically collects water usage data, enabling accurate billing and real-time monitoring.

Asset Management Plan (AMP)

A five-year planning cycle during which water companies plan and invest in infrastructure. For example, AMP7 covers 2020–2025.

B

Billing Period

The frequency at which a business receives water bills, commonly monthly, quarterly, or annually.

C

Central Market Operating System (CMOS)

The central IT system used by the water market to manage customer and transaction data between retailers and wholesalers.

Charges Scheme

A document published by water companies detailing the tariffs and charges applicable to various services.

D

Default Tariff

A standard pricing plan applied to customers who haven’t negotiated a specific contract with a retailer.

Disconnection

The process of stopping water supply, typically due to non-payment or at the customer’s request.

E

Estimated Read

A calculated water meter reading used when an actual read isn’t available, based on historical usage data.

F

Fixed Term Contract

An agreement between a business and a water retailer for a set duration, during which prices and terms are fixed.

I

Interruptible Supply

A water supply agreement where the retailer can temporarily suspend service under certain conditions, often in exchange for lower rates.

L

Leakage Allowance

A concession provided by some water companies where charges for water lost due to unforeseen leaks may be waived under specific conditions.

M

Metered Supply

A water supply arrangement where usage is measured via a meter, and charges are based on actual consumption.

MOSL (Market Operator Services Limited)

The organisation responsible for operating the non-household water market in England.

N

Non-Potable Water

Water that is not suitable for drinking but can be used for industrial or agricultural purposes.

O

Ofwat (Water Services Regulation Authority)

The economic regulator for the water and wastewater sector in England and Wales, ensuring companies provide good quality services at a fair price.

P

Potable Water

Water that is safe for human consumption.

PR19 (Price Review 2019)

Ofwat’s review process determining price controls and service expectations for water companies from 2020 to 2025.

S

SPID (Supply Point Identification Number)

A unique identifier for each water or wastewater supply point, used for billing and service management.

Standing Charge

A fixed daily fee covering the cost of maintaining the water supply connection, regardless of usage.

Switching

The process of changing from one water retailer to another to potentially secure better rates or services.

T

Trade Effluent

Liquid waste discharged from industrial or commercial processes into the sewer system, requiring specific consent and treatment.

U

Unmeasured Supply

A water supply arrangement without a meter, where charges are based on property type or rateable value rather than actual usage.

V

Void Property

A premises that is unoccupied and not using water services, yet still registered in the water market system.

W

Wholesaler

The company responsible for the physical supply of water and wastewater services, including infrastructure maintenance.