Is it possible to reclaim past water charges?

[DevonShrimper]

My daughter-in-law has had a water meter fitted, at her request, because the water bill was charged on a fixed rate. Because the house is on a housing estate on the edge of a 'very nice' neighbourhood she was paying through the nose for water. Having had the meter fitted, her water bill has plummetted by some 75%!
Question. Is there any way she can go back to the water company and get a refund for previous years as her usage now demonstrates that her previous bills were completely different to her actual usage?
We're talking about £6000 overpayment here, not small change to anyone.
Any advice would be helpful. Anyone?

[jules65]

The answer to this is a definate no, You wouldnt be a ble to prove that she hadnt used more water prior to having a meter as the water consumption wasnt measured at all prev, plus she could have had a family staying with her temporarily or had lots of pool parties or leaking overflow that people without a meter dont worry about because they arent paying for the wasted water. You can check with the water regulator for the area.

[OscarK]

I too had this problem, but certainly not to the extend of £6k. I complained and asked for the charges to be returned, but to no avail. I have since had a water meter fitted and my charges have now halved and they are still going down!
Unfortunately I don't think you will get your money back, but at least you know you are now paying for what you use.