Thames Water Announces Temporary Hosepipe Ban Across London

Millions of Thames Water customers across the capital are now subject to a temporary hosepipe ban as the region continues to experience prolonged dry weather, high temperatures and increased demand for water.

The restrictions, officially known as a Temporary Use Ban (TUB), have been introduced to help protect water supplies and ensure enough water remains available for essential everyday use. Thames Water says reservoir levels, rivers and groundwater have all been placed under increasing pressure following one of the driest periods in recent years.

What is banned?

Customers supplied by Thames Water must not use a hosepipe for a range of non-essential activities, including:

• Watering gardens, lawns and plants
• Filling paddling pools, swimming pools or ornamental ponds
• Washing private cars, caravans or boats
• Cleaning patios, driveways, walls or windows
• Using sprinklers or unattended irrigation systems

However, people can still use watering cans, buckets and water collected in water butts to care for their gardens.

Are there any exemptions?

Yes. Thames Water has confirmed that some customers are exempt from the restrictions, including certain Blue Badge holders, customers on the Priority Services Register and those who need to use a hosepipe for health, safety or animal welfare reasons. Full details of the exemptions are available on the company's website.

Could you be fined?

Anyone who deliberately ignores the restrictions could face a fine of up to £1,000, although Thames Water says its priority is to encourage customers to save water rather than issue penalties.

Why has the ban been introduced?

The water company says a combination of exceptionally dry weather, sustained high temperatures and increased customer demand has meant water is being used faster than it can be supplied through the network.

The company is continuing to move water around its network and repair leaks, but says reducing outdoor water use is one of the quickest ways to help maintain supplies for everyone.

How long will it last?

There is currently no confirmed end date for the hosepipe ban.

Thames Water says the restrictions will remain in place until rainfall and water resources recover sufficiently to allow the ban to be safely lifted.

For full details, including postcode checks and the complete list of restrictions and exemptions, customers can visit Thames Water's Temporary Hosepipe Ban page.