Surface water drainage refers to the removal of rainwater that falls on your roof, driveway, and other hard surfaces around your property. This rainwater typically flows into the public drainage system, which needs to be maintained to prevent flooding and ensure proper water management. Water companies charge for this service as part of your water bill.
For many businesses, the charge for surface water drainage is a small but noticeable part of their annual water bill. It varies depending on the water company and the size of the property, but it’s often included as a blanket charge, even if customers are unaware of what they’re paying for. In some cases, customers who manage rainwater themselves—through water butts, soakaways, or other sustainable drainage solutions—might still be paying for services they don’t use.