no water from the tap: what to do

Check whether your neighbours have water too. Then check your water company's website or social media for updates.

If the supply is off for long, they set up bottled water stations. People on the Priority Services Register get water brought to them.

what to do, in order

Check it is not just your home
Make sure your stopcock is open. If only your home is affected, it may be a leak or a frozen pipe.
Check your water company's updates
Your bill names your company. Their website shows known problems by postcode. Call them if nothing is posted.
Drink your stored water first
Allow 3 litres per person per day. Keep it for drinking and food, not washing.
Flush with water you cannot drink
Pour a bucket of bath or rain water into the pan. Flush only when you need to.
Tell your water company if you need help
Say if anyone at home is older, disabled, unwell or has a young baby. They put you first for deliveries.
When it comes back, run the cold kitchen tap
Run it until the water is clear. Cloudy water is usually air, and clears if left to stand.
Follow any boil water notice
Boil tap water and let it cool before drinking, brushing teeth or preparing food, until you are told to stop.

Check what you already have first, then buy only what is missing.

Bottled water
3 litres per person per day, for at least 3 days. Sealed bottles keep for years.
Choose one on Amazon: Bottled water (opens in a new tab)
10-litre water container with a tap
Fill it from your tap before a planned cut.
Choose one on Amazon: 10-litre water container with a tap (opens in a new tab)
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
For clean hands when you cannot use the taps.
Choose one on Amazon: Hand sanitiser and wet wipes (opens in a new tab)

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Sources checked 24 September 2026.