What is the difference between a sewage and freshwater supplier?
You might have one or two water suppliers. One provides clean (fresh) water, and the other handles wastewater (sewage). Some companies cover both, while others only manage one.
You might have one or two water suppliers. One provides clean (fresh) water, and the other handles wastewater (sewage). Some companies cover both, while others only manage one.
In the UK, your water service can be split between two suppliers — one for freshwater and one for sewage (wastewater).
Your freshwater supplier is responsible for bringing clean, treated water to your home. This is the water you use for drinking, cooking, bathing, and cleaning.
Your sewage supplier handles the removal and treatment of wastewater that leaves your property through drains, toilets, and sinks.
In many areas, a single company provides both services, meaning you’ll receive just one bill. However, in some regions, two different companies manage each part — so you may see two separate bills:
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One for your freshwater supply
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One for your sewage and drainage services
Tip: You can check who your water and sewage suppliers are by using the Water UK postcode tool:
👉 Find your water company (Water UK)
Note: If you receive both bills separately, make sure to upload copies of each to your Homebox account so your records and payments stay accurate.