Southern Water among water companies using bailiffs most frequently

Southern Water has been identified as one of the highest users of bailiffs in the UK water industry, according to figures released by a parliamentary committee.

Data published by the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Committee shows several companies including Southern Water, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, South West Water and Northumbrian Water made frequent use of enforcement agents between 2019 and 2025.

The figures indicate that Southern Water instructed bailiffs 15707 times in 2019. Across the industry overall use peaked in 2023 and 2024, although some individual companies reduced their use during that period. Bailiffs are typically instructed following a court order to recover unpaid debts, although customers who are elderly, disabled or on the Priority Services Register are generally exempt from such action.

Committee chairman Alistair Carmichael said the data highlighted differences in how companies respond to unpaid bills and called for careful consideration of the impact on households facing financial pressure. Southern Water said it offers support schemes including social tariffs that provide significant bill reductions for eligible customers while continuing to invest billions in improving services and protecting the environment.