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What is a Temporary Use Ban?
A Temporary Use Ban (TUB), also known as a hosepipe ban, is a formal restriction placed on both public and domestic water use. These bans are enforced to reduce water consumption and preserve local supplies during periods of prolonged hot, dry weather.
Why are wholesalers applying TUBs?
Recent record-breaking heatwaves and significantly reduced rainfall have caused water levels in UK rivers and reservoirs to drop drastically. As demand for water increases, wholesalers are implementing TUBs to prevent further supply disruptions.
To conserve water, wholesalers are asking domestic users to reduce their consumption by over 10% and encouraging business customers, especially those with high usage, to minimise water use where practical.
Does it affect businesses?
Yes. While TUBs are generally targeted at domestic use, some restrictions apply to businesses, particularly when using hosepipes for non-essential tasks like watering gardens or cleaning external areas. Do’s and don’ts for how TUB’s apply to businesses vary between Wholesalers. If a TUB is not saving enough water and dry weather prolongs, wholesalers may need to add further water restrictions for non-essential business use too.
A drought order would prevent companies and local authorities from using hoses for non-essential operating processes, such as: cleaning windows, watering plants and filling fountains and swimming pools. It would also stop golf courses using mains water to keep their grass green, although it would not prevent them using water from lakes or boreholes on the courses.
Businesses are encouraged to reduce usage where practical.
In the interest of saving water, business customers should still play their part by reducing their water use where practical. For more information businesses can read our guide on reducing business water consumption.
Wholesaler TUB updates – July 2026
Wholesalers are encouraging businesses with heavy water consumption to minimise usage during peak hours. For up-to-date information on TUBs in your region, check the following wholesaler updates below.
South East Water
South East Water have introduced a Temporary Use Ban (hosepipe restrictions) from 3 July 2026 and applying to the Kent area only.
More information can be found here.
Southern Water
Southern Water have implemented a hosepipe ban from 10 July 2026 and covering Hampshire and Isle of Wight area.
More information can be found here.
