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UK Services Information

When moving into a new home in the UK, you should be aware of all the essential services available and how you will be billed for using them. Additionally, you should be aware of the taxation and insurance requirements that apply.

Local Authority Services and Taxation

Refuse Collection

Refuse and waste is collected regularly, generally on the same day of each week (although this can be more / less frequent, depending on your location).  Waste must be placed in the same place on the night before the day of collection, either in a refuse bag made of sturdy plastic or in a bin with wheels (again, depending on your location).  To dispose of larger objects, such as beds, fridges, washing machines or other cumbersome furnishings, you must arrange with the local council for that to be done.

Recycling

Recycling is not mandatory across the UK, but is required in some locations and encouraged in all.  To do so, be sure to separate the recyclable materials (i.e. paper, glass, metal, plastic) from the other refuse and leave it in a separate bag / container (which will be provided / indicated to you by the local council).

Council Tax

Council Tax pay depends on the size and value of the property in which you dwell.  It's vital that you register to pay Council Tax when you move into a new property. Additionally, you have the option of paying the tax in one, two or ten instalments (from April to January).  Additionally, should you be the sole resident of the property, you receive a 25% reduction on your Council Tax (although this rule does not apply to Northern Ireland).

Utilities

Water

Upon moving into your new home, be it bought or rented, you should receive a letter informing you of the company responsible for supplying your water.  The charge for having water supplied to your home is called the water rates, and you have two options when paying these: in one lump sum payment, or in installments (which would usually be monthly).

The water rates are usually dependent upon the size of your property, although some homes will have a water meter to calculate exactly how much water you use. Should you be receiving Housing Benefit, then it is important you check to see if it will cover your water rates. 

Note: In Northern Ireland, water rates are currently included in the domestic rates (i.e. Council Tax).

Electricity and Gas

Electricity is supplied to all British homes at a level of 240 volts. Most will also have access to gas too.  However, whenever moving into a new home or leaving an old home, it is important you make a note of the electricity and gas meter readings. 

Telephone

While the majority of homes will already have a telephone line installed, new residents can order a new line to be installed by contacting BT (British Telecom) or a cable company.  Many companies now offer telephone land line, mobile and Internet services.  However, public payphones are also an option and can be used with cash, pre-paid phonecards or credit / debit cards.

Receiving Bills

Once you have started using the utilities, you will start receiving bills invoicing you for payment.  These will also detail the various methods of which you can complete payment, usually including:

Failure to pay bills on a regular basis means the service will be cut off.  To have it reconnected, you will be asked to pay another charge.

Please note: any urgent problems with disconnection from any of these utilities can be reported on a 24 hour help-line that will be printed on your bill.

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