South East Water: Ofwat investigates possible supply failures

An investigation has been launched by the water regulator into South East Water over possible failures in maintaining supplies to households.

The water company is currently the worst performer for water supply interruptions in England and Wales, Ofwat said.

The firm supplies customers in Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire.

South East Water has been approached for comment.

From 2022 to 2023, there was an average of more than three hours of water supply lost per property, compared with its performance commitment level of about five minutes and 45 seconds, Ofwat said.

The regulator said it was looking at whether the supplier had failed to develop and maintain an efficient water supply system.

David Black, Ofwat chief executive, said: "Providing reliable water supplies is at the heart of a water company's responsibilities.

"Too many customers have been failed too often by South East Water.

"We are clear that water companies must do more to regain public trust and it must start with better service.

"Where this does not happen, we will use all of our powers to ensure the sector delivers better value for both customers and the environment."

In the latest Water Company Performance Report, Ofwat categorised South East Water as "lagging behind" and required it to publish a service commitment plan by the end of November to address several areas of underperformance, including supply interruptions.