The water bill in Spain is a document that details the costs associated with the supply and use of water in each household. The contract holder, whether a property owner or a tenant, must become familiar with its content to efficiently manage consumption and related expenses. It is important to note that, just as with electricity contracts, the water bill's ownership can belong to either the property owner or the tenant, and this decision should be clearly stated in the lease agreement.

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In this blog, we provide you with a detailed guide to understanding each section of your water bill in a straightforward way, making it easier to interpret and promoting responsible management of this resource.

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Basic information on the bill

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Before diving into the more complex concepts of the bill, it is essential to understand the basic information that identifies both the customer and the service provided. This data allows utility companies to keep a clear record of their users and provide efficient service, while also being critical for resolving any issues or clarifying doubts.

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• Name of the contract holder: This could be either the property owner or the tenant, as specified in the lease agreement. This information identifies who is responsible for payments and, in case of issues, who to contact.
• Billing period: The time frame covered by the bill, usually monthly or bimonthly. This is key to correlating consumption with actual usage during that period.
• Contract code or customer number: This identifies your contract with the utility company, enabling faster and more precise management.
• Service address: Indicates the location of the property where the service is provided, which should align with the consumption location.

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Water Consumption

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The water consumption section is one of the most important parts of the bill, as it reflects the actual volume used during the billing period. Understanding how consumption is measured and calculated can help you identify potential leaks or adjust your habits to save water and money.

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• Current and previous readings: These values show the actual consumption recorded by the water meter. It’s important to check these figures to ensure they match the meter readings.
• Billed consumption: This is the difference between the two readings and reflects the water used during the specified period. If consumption seems unusually high, it might indicate leaks or excessive use.
• Consumption blocks: Many companies apply tiered rates, where the price per cubic meter increases as consumption rises. This system encourages responsible water use and penalizes excessive consumption.

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Rates and billed items

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The water bill not only reflects consumption but also other costs associated with maintaining infrastructure and related services. These charges are usually itemized to provide greater clarity about where the funds are allocated.

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• Fixed charge or service fee: A constant amount that covers the maintenance of the water supply network. This fee is charged regardless of your consumption.
• Variable charge: Based on actual water consumption, it is proportional to the volume used during the billing period.
• Sanitation fee: This covers wastewater treatment and sanitation services. It ensures that water returned to the environment meets the required standards.
• Other services: In some cases, the bill may include additional charges for services like waste management or maintenance. These charges vary by company and region.

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Taxes applied

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Taxes are a mandatory part of the bill and are regulated by current legislation. Understanding how they are calculated and why they are applied can help you better understand the total amount of your bill.

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• VAT (Value-Added Tax): Applied to services and fees at a rate set by law (usually 10% for water). It is an indirect tax added to the total cost.
• Regional fee: In some autonomous communities, an additional tax is applied to finance water infrastructure. This fee varies by region.

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Payment methods and contact information

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Paying the bill is a straightforward process thanks to the multiple options offered by utility companies. However, being aware of deadlines and available channels is essential to avoid future problems or unnecessary charges. Additionally, having the correct contact details allows you to resolve issues or inquiries effectively.

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• Available payment methods: The bill specifies how you can make payments, including options like direct debit, bank transfer, online payments through secure portals or mobile apps, and even in-person payments at authorized offices.
• Payment deadlines: It is important to meet the specified deadline to avoid penalties or temporary suspension of service. If you face difficulties paying on time, some companies offer financing or deferral plans.
• Contact details: The bill includes phone numbers, email addresses, and, in some cases, physical office locations. These channels are available for queries, reporting incidents, or clarifying doubts related to the bill or the service.

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Understanding your water bill not only helps you manage your expenses better but also encourages more responsible and sustainable use of this resource. Both property owners and tenants can benefit from knowing the details of their bills to prevent misunderstandings, identify irregularities, and take measures to optimize consumption while ensuring environmental care.

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Additionally, remember that there are other important documents you should be familiar with when managing your home, such as the Certificate of Habitability or the Energy Certificate. Knowing these documents will also help you make more informed and responsible decisions.

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