Received a Letter From Your Water Company About Grease?
Don't panic, but don't ignore it either. We help businesses respond properly and achieve compliance quickly. Time is critical.
Free consultation • Same-day response • Help with your reply
What Happens If You Ignore the Letter?
Water authorities have significant enforcement powers. Ignoring their notice can lead to serious consequences.
Enforcement Notice
A formal legal notice requiring specific actions by a deadline. Failure to comply is a criminal offence.
Prosecution
Charges under Section 111 of the Water Industry Act 1991. Unlimited fines and potential imprisonment.
Recharge Costs
You'll be billed for the cost of clearing blockages caused by your premises. This can run to thousands of pounds.
Business Closure
In extreme cases, environmental health can close your kitchen until compliance is achieved.
We Help You Respond Quickly and Properly
We've helped hundreds of businesses deal with water authority notices. Here's how we get you compliant fast.
Free Emergency Survey
We visit within 24-48 hours to assess your current setup and measure the problem.
Compliance Report
We document exactly what you need to satisfy the water authority requirements.
Installation
We install the right grease trap system fast, working around your operating hours.
Help With Response
We provide technical documentation to help you draft a professional reply.
What the Letter Means
Water companies are cracking down on FOG (fats, oils, grease) entering the sewer system. When they identify a problem area, they contact all businesses that might be contributing.
The letter is not an accusation, but it is a formal notice that you need to take action. The water company has a duty to prevent blockages and pollution, and they have legal powers to enforce compliance.
The good news is that installing a compliant grease trap and maintaining it properly will satisfy the water authority and protect your business from future issues.
Common Triggers for Letters
Typical Timeline
Understanding the usual timeline helps you respond appropriately and avoid escalation.
You Receive the Letter
The letter typically gives you 28-56 days to respond or take action. Don't wait until the deadline.
Arrange a Survey
Contact us immediately for a free compliance survey. We'll assess your needs and provide a quote.
Installation
We install your grease trap system. Most installations take 1-2 days. We work around your hours.
Respond to Water Company
With your system installed, you can respond confidently with proof of compliance.
If You Haven't Acted
The water company will escalate to enforcement action. This is when fines and prosecution become likely.
Water Authority Letter FAQs
Why have I received a letter from my water company about grease?
Your water company has identified that your business might be discharging fats, oils, and grease (FOG) into the sewer system. This could be due to a complaint, routine monitoring, or a blockage investigation in your area. The letter is a formal notification that you need to take action to prevent FOG entering the drains.
How long do I have to respond to the water company?
Typically, water companies give 28-56 days to respond or take action. However, don't wait until the deadline. The sooner you act, the better. Contacting us immediately allows us to assess your situation, provide a solution, and help you respond properly within the timeframe.
What happens if I ignore the letter?
Ignoring a water authority notice is very risky. The next steps could include: an enforcement visit, formal enforcement notice requiring specific actions by a deadline, prosecution under Section 111 of the Water Industry Act 1991, unlimited fines, criminal record, and even business closure. Always respond promptly.
What information should I send back to the water company?
You should provide: confirmation you've received their letter, details of your current grease management setup (if any), your plan to achieve compliance, and timeline for installation or improvements. We can help you draft a professional response that includes all necessary technical details and demonstrates you're taking it seriously.
Do I definitely need to install a grease trap, or are there alternatives?
For most commercial hot food premises, a grease trap is the standard solution. Alternatives like biological dosing systems exist but aren't suitable for all situations. Your water company letter might specify what they expect. We can survey your site and recommend the most appropriate and cost-effective solution that will satisfy the water authority.
Will the water company inspect my premises?
They might. Water companies have the right to inspect commercial premises to check compliance. They usually give notice, but can visit unannounced in some cases. Having your grease trap properly installed and documented before any inspection is essential. We ensure everything is compliant and inspection-ready.
Don't Wait. Get Help Today.
Every day you delay makes the situation worse. We offer free emergency surveys and can usually install within a week.
Ready to Get Started?
Get in touch for a free site survey and quote. No obligation, no pressure.