5 Ways to Find The Best Business Water Supplier as a SME
Did you know that you can freely switch water providers for your small business?
That means, at any point, you can scan online and find the best business water supplier. It’s essential for keeping costs manageable and ensuring your business has a reliable water supply.
But how do you do that, and what should you look for? We’ll cover it all in this guide. Here are your five key details to look out for as you browse;
1. Compare Prices & Tariffs Via Online Quote Tools
The easiest way to find the best deal is by using online business water quote tools or by using comparison websites.
These tools allow you to see what each company is offering and compare multiple quotes at once, helping you compare tariffs without being pressured by a salesperson.
Many suppliers offer different pricing structures, including fixed and variable rates, so it’s important to understand which suits your business best.
Checking for hidden fees, such as standing charges or additional service costs, can also help you avoid unexpected expenses.
2. Customer Service & Reliability
Customer service is often overlooked until an issue arises, and by that time, it’s too late. Testing a supplier’s response time before signing up can save you trouble down the line.
Send an inquiry, random question, or request a quote and see how long they take to respond. A reliable supplier should be prompt, helpful, and transparent—no matter the question.
Poor customer service can lead to delayed issue resolution, billing mistakes, or difficulty getting support when you need it.
3. Check for Added Services or Benefits
Beyond supplying water, you should look for companies that go above and beyond with additional services that can save you more money. This could include leak detection, water efficiency audits, or usage tracking tools, among many more.
These extras can help you identify areas where you’re using more water than necessary, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Some suppliers even offer multi-site billing for businesses with multiple locations, simplifying account management.
If these benefits aren’t listed upfront, don’t hesitate to ask—sometimes, they’re available but not heavily advertised.
4. Have a Keen Eye on Contract Terms and Exit Fees
Long contracts with hidden exit fees can be a costly mistake for SMEs. Always review the terms carefully, paying close attention to contract length, automatic renewals, and early termination fees.
Some suppliers offer lower rates in exchange for long-term contracts, but if your business circumstances change, you could be stuck with a supplier that no longer suits your needs.
If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably comes with strict terms—so make sure you read the fine print before signing anything.
5. Verify Their Reputation and Accreditation
A supplier’s reputation says a lot about its reliability. Before committing, check reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and reviews.io to see what other business customers are saying.
Look for honest, detailed reviews rather than generic or overly positive ones, which could be paid for or botted.
Industry accreditations, such as those from the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) or the Water Retail Company (WRC), can also indicate a trustworthy provider.
If you’re unsure, online forums like Reddit, and localibs can be a great place to ask other business owners about their experiences with different suppliers.
Closing Thoughts
Investing time in selecting the right water supplier can be significantly beneficial for your SME.
By thoroughly evaluating pricing, customer service, additional benefits, contract terms, and supplier reputation, you can make a decision that better suits your business and even saves you money in the long run.
For more expert advice on managing your SME’s expenses, finding the best suppliers, and making smarter business decisions, check out Small Business Blog.
