Water rates rebate - what you need to know
Norwich City Council is issuing water rates rebates to eligible tenants following a legal ruling about how water charges were collected. Payments will be made in stages, and we'll contact you if you're eligible.
Why you're getting a rebate
Norwich City Council used to collect water charges from tenants on behalf of Anglian Water. A court ruling in 2020 found that councils were only allowed to charge a small admin fee (£5 per year per property), not take a commission. Because of this, we’re refunding the difference to tenants - with interest.
Who will get a rebate?
- Around 8,000 current tenants will automatically receive a rebate.
- Former tenants who believe they are eligible can get in touch.
How much will I get?
- Rebates will vary depending on how long you were a tenant and how much you paid.
- Payments include interest.
When and how will I get it?
- Rebates will be paid in batches over the next few months.
- If you're a current tenant, your rebate will be added to your rent account.
- If this creates a credit, you can:
- take a short rent payment break until the credit is used.
- request a refund to your bank account.
What if I’m a former tenant?
You’ll be able to apply online soon. We’ll ask for some ID to confirm your details. The form isn’t live yet - please check back later.
What if I get Housing Benefit?
If your rent is fully covered and a credit is created, you can still request a refund to your bank account.
Frequently asked questions
Why is this happening now?
The legal case took time to resolve, and calculating rebates for thousands of tenants is complex.
How was my rebate worked out?
We looked at:
- water charges you paid since April 2013
- the commission the council received - this was then compared to the smal admin fee (£5) then we are allowed to charge
- interest (double the Bank of England base rate)
Can I get the money paid to my bank?
Yes - if your rent account is in credit, you can ask for a refund.
I’ve bought my home – can I still claim?
Yes, if you paid water charges through the council since 2013.
I pay Anglian Water directly – do I get a rebate?
Only if at some point you paid water rates through the council (between 2013 and 2024).
Will this affect my benefits?
Possibly. Please check with:
- the Housing Benefit team - email them: benefits@norwich.gov.uk
- the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
What’s changing in the future?
From April 2026, Norwich City Council will stop collecting water charges.
You’ll need to:
- set up direct payments with Anglian Water. You do not need to do anything as they will get in touch with you to set up a payment account.
- consider switching to a water meter to save money - find out more at www.anglianwater.co.uk/metering - you can switch earlier if you have a water meter
Need help?
Email: waterrebate@norwich.gov.uk
Call our Contact Centre on 0344 980 3333
See webpage with recent letter to tenants www.norwich.gov.uk/WaterRebate
