South East Water imposes a Kent hosepipe ban amid heat-driven demand

South East Water has imposed a hosepipe ban across parts of Kent after hot weather pushed drinking-water demand beyond what it says it can treat and refill fast enough.

The company said the restriction is already in place for residents to follow, but it will become legally enforceable from July 3, 2026. Reporting says the ban covers nine locations in Kent, although the full list has not been made public in the coverage available so far.

David Hinton, South East Water’s chief executive, apologised for the disruption and said the company needs to protect supply and avoid the risk of sudden loss of water for homes. One report said the company is currently producing more than an extra 100 million litres of water a day to keep up with demand.

Why the ban was introduced

The restriction comes during a severe UK heatwave, with temperatures reaching 36C and red extreme-heat warnings in force through Friday. South East Water said the weather has lifted demand for drinking water to a level its treatment system cannot sustain.

The company has framed the measure as a temporary use ban, affecting mains-connected hosepipes and sprinklers for non-essential outdoor uses.

What residents need to know

Coverage of the restriction says breaches can be prosecuted under the Water Industry Act 1991, with fines of up to £1,000.

South East Water has asked households to save water immediately, even before the formal enforcement date. The company’s notice has not yet been fully detailed in the available reporting, so the precise exemptions and end date remain unclear.

Wider context

The ban adds to wider disruption from the heatwave, which has put pressure on transport, health services and infrastructure across the UK. South East Water has also faced scrutiny over resilience and has imposed hosepipe restrictions in the past during periods of high demand and dry conditions.

Further updates are expected if the company confirms the full list of affected locations or expands restrictions elsewhere in its supply area.