Are water companies legally obliged to maintain a continuous supply of water?

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Are water companies legally obliged to maintain a continuous supply of water?

Water companies normally have a duty to provide a constant supply of water that is sufficient for domestic purposes such as drinking, washing, cooking, central heating and sanitary purposes (sections 62 and 65 of the Water Industry Act 1991).

However, if there is (or if there is a danger of) a serious supply shortage in an area, because of exceptionally low rainfall, then the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has the power to make a drought order (section 73 of the Water Resources Act 1991).

A drought order can change a water company's water supply obligations including quantity, pressure and means of supply. Water companies can also prohibit or limit the use of water for any purpose specified in the order; for example hosepipe or sprinkler usage, either for the watering of private gardens, or for the washing of private cars.

Defra is currently in the process of updating the companies' powers to restrict the non-essential use of water. You can find more details on its website.