Water Services Regulation Authority

Ofwat is a government body that regulates the water and sewerage industry in England and Wales. It operates from the Centre City Tower in Birmingham, a modern office building in the city centre. The authority was created in 1988 when ten water authorities were privatised. Its main duties include protecting consumer interests and ensuring long-term water supply resilience. Ofwat also sets price limits for water services every five years through periodic reviews. The organisation plays a key role in promoting competition in water markets. It regulates both household and non-household customers, extending retail competition since 2017. Ofwat’s work includes overseeing capital investment schemes like new wastewater treatment works. The authority has conducted six price reviews since 1994, with the latest setting limits for 2025 to 2030. It also runs an Innovation Fund, backed by £600 million, to support projects that improve the water sector. Visitors to the Centre City Tower will find a professional office environment rather than a public attraction. The building houses the board and staff who carry out regulatory work. Ofwat’s role is administrative, focusing on licensing and market oversight. The authority does not offer tours or public exhibits. Its work remains largely behind the scenes, supporting the water industry’s operations across England and Wales.