Take the Meter. Flat rate charges are based on a family of 2 adults and two kids usinbg the baths/showers washing machines etc. If there are just two of you you or even one you will be paying over the odds As I live alone now my additional tips are have enough clothing to enable you to do an economic wash load load one a fortnight. Take showers not a batc, put enough water iun the kettle for the single cuppa. Result - whilst my neighbours pay £280 pa flat rate My metered bill is just £7 per month.

Supposedly using a (full!) dishwasher is more water and energy efficient than washing everything by hand.

ams4127. I do know that when I changed to a meter my water bill went down from over £50 per month (on the rates) to approx £17 per month. It has since settled to about £21 per month. But I do not try to go without water in any shape or form. I love keeping my rickety old spine under the hot shower water and have to force myself to get out from under. But I linger there as long as I want really. I always have put just enough water in a kettle for the amount of cups needed. That has always been to save on electricity though. I don't have a dishwasher but have always used my washing up water on plants and the grass etc. The washing up liquid probably does more good than harm. I've got a water butt in the garden as well and always have had, not just since changing to a meter.

Bingalau

Must be pretty special water round your way at £600 pa! (Then again the 'pool was always a bit special for me!).

Good Scottish water costs me £224 pa,(£18.50 per month) for a large detached house. Never even considered asking for a meter, nor have the water people asked me to have one.