Hosepipe bans - the whats and the whys

Everything you need to know about recent hosepipe bans

Over the past month, the UK has been enjoying the sun in unprecedented heat which has been welcomed by many. However, with extremely hot, dry, weather continuing across much of the country, water companies have had to take action and impose hosepipe bans.

Every water company has a detailed plan to manage water resources for customers and the environment. They are doing everything they can by working closely with regulators and the house of commons to ensure rivers continue to flow throughout this hot spell.

It's important for us all to recognise that our water companies take no pride in introducing restrictions and if they can be avoided, they will – it has been made clear that companies will provide as much forewarning as possible and provide particular exemptions to certain situations where restrictions would cause particular difficulty.

Find out whether there is a hosepipe ban in your area here.

Why is a hosepipe ban so important?

Over the last 2 weeks, at least six rivers have seen record-breaking water shortages – therefore, water companies have to be responsible for trying to reduce demand as much as possible. Unfortunately, voluntary measures alone such as ‘keeping an eye' on water usage won't be enough to help prevent a serious drought in the country, hence why we are facing such restrictions as hosepipe bans.

Will I get a fine if I don’t comply with the rules?

If you are caught breaking the rules of a hosepipe ban you can be prosecuted in a criminal court and fined up to £1000 under the water industry act 1991.

What are the alternatives?

If you’re worried about this hosepipe ban due to the amount of time and money you’ve put into your garden in the last 8 months you’re not alone. There are ways to keep your garden green even without the help of your hosepipe, take a look at the options we have found below.

• Water butts

  A water butt collects and stores rainwater for use in your garden, saving money on water bills as well as helping the environment.

• Protect your soil

  Mulching borders with bark or grass to help retain moisture and keep the roots of your plant healthy preventing them from going dry.

• Reuse your water

  Save bath water or water from your washing up (as long as there's no bleach or grease involved) and feed it to your plants!

• Water your plants at night 

  Don’t water your plants in the heat of the day, any moisture you have added will immediately evaporate and won’t help your plants keep hydrated. Water them late afternoon or early evening to give them the opportunity to soak up your water.