Water scarcity and Council support for private water supplies users
Following an unusually dry start to 2025, Scotland has been placed on an "early warning" for water scarcity by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA).
Considering this warning, Highland Council’s Environmental Health Team is recommending that consumers on private water supplies use water responsibly, to check the water system for any indications of leaks or contamination risks and think about other options if your water supply is potentially in shortage. A property without a Scottish Water mains water connection is considered to have a private water supply. Typically, these supplies are found in rural regions.
As a preventive public health measure, you should also boil your water before consuming, cooking, and brushing your teeth if your private water supply is untreated or you are currently unable to maintain your water treatment system.
To help people acquire safe drinking water during this growing period of water scarcity, Highland Council, in collaboration with Scottish Water and the Scottish Government, has announced the establishment of an Emergency Bottled Water Scheme. As part of the scheme, the Council may provide consumers of domestic properties who are eligible, a temporary supply of free bottled water. Commercial buildings, farms, equestrian facilities, and other livestock are not included in the scheme however SEPA may be able to offer support for farmers.
For support or advice regarding your private water supply, please phone the Environmental Health team on 01349 886606 or email envhealth@highland.gov.uk.
Patricia Sheldon, Highland Council’s Senior Environmental Health Officer said: "It's very reassuring that with the help of the Scottish Government, the Council can provide bottled water to support our communities and individuals who are experiencing water scarcity problems with their domestic private water supplies.
"We have recently received a number of calls from vulnerable persons and families concerned about their water supplies. We should all strive to use water responsibly, especially if you get your water from a private water source. To address short-term solutions to their water consumption demands and to consider longer-term solutions to improve the supply, I would encourage anyone who has concerns about their private water supply to contact us. The Council is helping where we can.”
Further information:
Scottish Government - Private Water Supplies
Drinking Water Quality Inspector - Private Water Supply Information
Scottish Water - Water Saving Advice