South East Water Announces Business Interruption Compensation Scheme Following Tunbridge Wells Water Supply Disruption

South East Water has announced the launch of a discretionary business interruption compensation scheme to support businesses affected by the loss of water supply and subsequent boil water notice in Tunbridge Wells between 29th November and 12th December 2025.

The disruption occurred during the critical pre-Christmas trading period, creating significant challenges for local businesses. In recognition of the impact experienced, South East Water committed to establishing a voluntary compensation fund in addition to existing statutory payments.

Compensation Scheme Details

Businesses previously received Guaranteed Standards of Service (GSS) payments via their water retailers before Christmas. South East Water is now providing access to a separate discretionary fund for businesses that experienced demonstrable financial losses as a direct result of the interruption.

The scheme is being independently administered by Wedlake Bell LLP on behalf of South East Water Limited.

Payments made under this scheme:

• Will be distributed from a voluntary discretionary fund
• Are not part of an insurance claim
• Do not affect statutory rights, including GSS entitlements or the ability to pursue civil action

Wedlake Bell LLP may request additional documentary evidence to assess claims and verify losses before decisions are made.

The anticipated timeframe for distribution of funds is by 31st August 2026.

Application Deadline

The cut-off date for submitting claims is 31st May 2026.

How to Apply

Businesses wishing to apply should email [email protected] and provide the following information:

1. Business name and trading address, including registered company name and company number.
   • Businesses operating from multiple sites should include full details.
2. A full set of business accounts covering the period including December 2025 (unaudited accounts are acceptable).
3. Details of financial losses suffered as a result of the interruption, including calculations.
4. A brief explanation of the methodology used to calculate losses.
5. Confirmation of whether business interruption insurance was in place at the time, including:
   • Policy details
   • Whether a claim was made
   • The outcome of any claim

For questions regarding applications, businesses can contact 01376 557249.

Supporting Local Businesses

South East Water is encouraging organisations, business groups, and local stakeholders to share this information with any businesses that may have been affected.

Statement

Tanya Sephton, Customer Services Director at South East Water, said:

“We understand how incredibly difficult and disruptive the water supply issues and subsequent boil water notice were for businesses in Tunbridge Wells, particularly during the lead-up to Christmas.

We are committed to supporting affected businesses through this discretionary fund and remain sincerely sorry for the disruption caused to customers and their operations.”