00:00The first hosepipe ban of 2025 comes into effect today.
00:06Yorkshire Waters hosepipe ban will affect over 5 million customers.
00:12So what does it mean for you? What does it include? And what is exempt? And why?
00:18People are banned from using their hosepipe to water their gardens, fill hot tubs and paddling pools.
00:24But there are some people who are exempt, such as blue badge holders and people on certain water tariffs.
00:32If you're found to be flouting the ban, especially if it's continuously, then your water company could charge you up to £1,000.
00:42Hosepipes may still be used for commercial purposes, as well as watering crops and produce, which is sold or for commercial use.
00:51If you're unsure, it's always best to check your own tariff and with your water company.
00:59But why is there a ban?
01:01There's been a lot of backlash about there being a ban on hosepipes, considering all the different problems with leaky drains and water usage.
01:10There's been a lot of backlash about the hosepipe ban, saying that customers are feeling the brunt of Yorkshire Waters' inadequacies when it comes to leaky pipes and different issues in their water supply.
01:25So why is there a ban?
01:26Well, Yorkshire Waters have said because there's only been 15 centimetre of rainfall between earlier this year to June, which is some of the lowest rainfall in a long time.
01:37And a drought has also been officially declared at the start of the summer months.
01:44Yorkshire Waters have said that reservoir levels are low and they hope that the ban will help increase water levels.
01:52You can still, however, use watering cans and other means to water your gardens.
01:58You may also use a hosepipe if it's from a water butt.
02:02But Yorkshire Waters have asked customers that whatever they're doing with water is to use it wisely.
02:10We'd love to know your thoughts on the hosepipe ban.
