Effective Summer Water-Saving Strategies and Community Initiatives for UK Households- save water in the home

Are Droughts and hosepipe bans the future?. As we head into the warmer months, there’s no better time to think about how we use water in and around our homes. Whether you’re a tenant, homeowner, or landlord, making simple changes to your water habits can save money, protect the environment, and improve your outdoor space. With inspiration from SES Water's recent community updates, we've pulled together a guide that covers everything from gardening wisely to spotting leaks early, with a focus on practical solutions for UK homes.

Why Water Efficiency Matters

Water might feel like an unlimited resource, especially in the UK, where rain is never far away. But during the summer months, the demand for water rises sharply. Hosepipes come out, paddling pools are filled, and thirsty gardens cry out for attention. The challenge is that much of this water is treated to drinking standard before it even reaches our taps, making unnecessary use both wasteful and expensive.

Efficient water use also helps protect natural ecosystems. Rivers, reservoirs and wildlife habitats all rely on a balanced water table. Using water responsibly ensures that nature gets its fair share, even in times of drought or low rainfall.

Smarter Gardening for a Greener Summer

If you have access to a garden, you’ll know just how much joy a well-tended outdoor space can bring during the warmer months. But keeping your plants healthy doesn’t mean splashing water around with abandon.

Here are a few practical, water-wise gardening tips:

• Water at the right time: Early morning or late evening watering reduces evaporation, giving soil and roots more time to absorb moisture.

• Mulch your beds: Adding a layer of organic mulch helps the soil retain moisture and keeps roots cool.

• Use water-retentive composts: Many compost blends now include ingredients designed to lock in water for longer periods.

• Harvest rainwater: Water butts are an easy way to collect rainwater for later use. It’s better for your plants and kinder to your water bill.

• Choose drought-tolerant plants: Lavender, sedum, and ornamental grasses are attractive options that require less watering.

• Group plants with similar needs: Avoid overwatering dry-loving plants by keeping them separate from thirstier species.

  
  

These small changes make a big difference over a dry season, and they can reduce the need for a hosepipe or sprinkler altogether.

Community Action: From Ponds to Planting

SES Water recently shared a brilliant example of local engagement when their staff volunteered to restore a neglected pond at Gateway Garden in Reigate. What started as a tired water feature has now become a haven for wildlife and a tranquil space for the community to enjoy.

The work involved relining the pond, refilling it, and installing a new pump to keep the water clean and flowing. As a result, frogs, insects and birds now thrive in the area, and local residents have gained a peaceful retreat to unwind.

It’s a reminder that improving outdoor spaces doesn’t always need grand budgets or big teams—just a few hands and a shared goal.

If you manage a community garden or shared outdoor space, consider whether a small water project could make a big impact. Wildlife ponds, rainwater irrigation, or simply installing new water-saving fixtures can all contribute to a more sustainable and enjoyable environment.

Community Grants for Water Efficiency

Did you know there’s funding available for community groups looking to improve water efficiency? SES Water’s Every Drop Counts fund supports projects that reduce water waste and promote sustainability.

Eligible projects might include:

• Installing water butts or rainwater harvesting systems

• Repairing old or leaking plumbing

• Upgrading toilets and taps to more efficient models

• Creating drought-tolerant planting schemes

• Water-saving education for schools or youth groups

Applying for funding is straightforward, and the benefits are far-reaching. Lower water bills, improved green spaces, and positive environmental outcomes all come from using less water, more wisely.

For landlords with HMOs or shared flats, there may even be scope to apply on behalf of a tenant group or block, provided the project offers community-level benefits.

Don't Let Leaks Drain Your Wallet

Leaks are one of the most overlooked causes of water waste in homes across the UK. A dripping tap or slow-running toilet might not seem urgent, but over time these faults can waste thousands of litres of water. If you're on a water meter, that’s money literally going down the drain.

Signs of a leak include:

• Damp patches on walls, floors or ceilings

• A sudden increase in your water bill

• The sound of running water when no taps are on

• Water meter movement when appliances aren’t in use

  
  

Responsibility for leak repairs depends on where the issue occurs:

• Inside the property: Landlords or homeowners are usually responsible.

• Outside the property boundary: The local water company is typically in charge.

• Shared flats or HMOs: Check the tenancy agreement—it’s often the landlord’s responsibility, but not always.

  
  

If in doubt, speak to your water provider. Most offer free advice and may help detect leaks if reported early.

Support for Vulnerable Customers

SES Water also operates a Priority Services Register (PSR) for customers who may need extra help. This could be due to age, disability, physical or mental health conditions, or other personal circumstances.

By registering, you or your tenant can receive:

• Advanced notice of supply interruptions

• Accessible reading services or communications

• Help with meter readings

• A nominated person scheme to manage bills or alerts on someone else’s behalf

  
  

Joining the PSR is free and completely confidential. Landlords should make sure tenants are aware of this service, especially if managing properties with older residents or those with known support needs.

Everyday Water-Saving Habits for Indoors

Water efficiency isn’t just about big garden projects. It starts at the tap. Here are a few habits to adopt at home:

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth

• Install aerators on taps and showerheads

• Use a bowl to wash up, rather than running water

• Only boil the water you need in the kettle

• Run full loads in washing machines and dishwashers

• Fix dripping taps promptly

Even small changes, when done consistently, can make a real impact on your water consumption and bills.

Final Thoughts: Every Drop Counts

As we look forward to long summer evenings and time outdoors, let’s also take a moment to think about how we use water. Whether you're renting a flat with shared facilities or own a family home with a garden, the choices you make every day shape not just your bills but the health of our rivers, wildlife, and communities.

From community projects to priority support, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference. If you’d like more water-saving tips or want to explore grant funding for your area, check out your local water provider’s website.

Let’s make this summer greener, one drop at a time. https://youtu.be/D-B-Azti19U