Charges, meters and PPS numbers - your water questions answered

Bills will be capped until at least the end of 2018, the charge per 1,000 litres is reduced and a €100 payment will be made to every household. Charging will now begin from January, with the first bills to land in April. PPS numbers will not be required to register.

Why has this happened?

In the face of mounting opposition to charges, and concerns about families being unable to pay.

How can the Government reduce charges so much and still invest in the network?

It says Irish Water's revenue will drop by €20m a year, which will not affect investment. It will still borrow based on expected annual revenues of €271m from households and €219m from commercial customers.

What about those with medical needs who use a lot of water?

Their bills will remain capped.

Can I get a pre-pay meter?

No.

Can Irish Water disconnect my supply?

No. Nor can they reduce water pressure or seek payment from salary or State payments.

Will there still be free allowances?

Only the annual child's allowance of 21,000 litres will apply. The €100 subsidy is designed to cover the previous household allowance of 30,000 litres.

What happens when my child leaves the family home?

If there are two adults remaining, it makes no difference as bills are capped. If there is one adult remaining, Irish Water should be told if the departure or return of an adult student or worker is for longer than three months.

What if I have lead pipes in my home or cannot drink the water?

If restrictions are in place, no charge applies but you will still pay for wastewater services if applicable.

Will there be any concessions for hard water?

No, as it poses no risk to health.

What if my metered bill is less than the flat-rate charge?

You will pay the lower amount. If someone moving to a meter from the flat-rate is paying more than necessary, they get a credit on their bill.

I live in an apartment. I cannot get a meter.

You will pay the flat charge.

What about living above the shop?

You will receive two bills - one for domestic, and one for your commercial needs.

I've already registered. What happens to my PPS number?

The data will be destroyed under the supervision of the Data Protection Commissioner, and independently verified.

Do I need to register to claim by €100 allowance?

Yes, by February 2 next.

Will I have to pay Irish Water €188 to check for a leak?

No, the call-out charge has been abolished.