What is a Supply Point Identification Number?

Knowing the amount of water you use is important. Not only can it help you control costs, but it can even help you identify leaks before they become a serious issue. To find this out, you’ll need to access your water meter, and to understand it fully, you’ll need your ‘SPID’, or ‘Supply Point Identification Number’. 

What is a SPID Number?

Your SPID numbers are the reference numbers specifically identifying the water and sewage supplied to a property or premises. Most will have two - one for water and one for sewage - though it is possible to have one, and, especially with larger business premises, having more than two is possible. 

A SPID number is important because it lets your water provider know where your access to water is. This could be very important should you ever spring a leak. It is also very important to collect all chargeable data related to your premises, including full meter details and other allowances regarding your business water charges. You’ll need it should you ever wish to change water suppliers. 

Why Should You Know Your SPID Number?

It is very much in your best interests to have your SPID number on hand. It will allow you to check your water meter for discrepancies and correct inaccurate billing, and it can also help detect leaks and other structural issues. 

How do I Find my Water SPID?

You can find your water and sewerage SPID numbers on a recent bill from your supplier. The format differs between England and Scotland. In England, the number is built from a 10-digit ‘core’ SPID followed by a suffix for either water (‘W’) or sewerage (‘S’).

What’s the Difference between a Core SPID and Water/Sewerage SPID?

The structure of a SPID depends on whether your business is in England or Scotland. In England, premises have a 10-digit ‘core’ SPID, which forms the basis for two separate supply point IDs - one for water and one for sewerage. In Scotland, a single 12-digit SPID identifies the supply point for all services (water and/or sewerage) and typically starts with a 1 or 2.

An English water SPID will consist of 10 digits followed by a 'W' for water and another two digits: 3XXXXXXXXXWXX.

An English sewage SPID has 10 digits, followed by an ‘S’ for sewage, another digit, and a letter: 3XXXXXXXXXSXL.

The Role of SPID Numbers in Water Supply Management

SPIDs are important for various reasons, well beyond readings and leak-spotting. They allow retailers and wholesalers to access all historical data relating to the premises, including past meter reads, changes to charges, etc. SPIDs are also required if a customer wants to switch water suppliers, and they allow water companies to monitor usage on a broad scale and improve customer service by offering more accurate readings. 

Can a SPID Number Change if I Move Properties?

Yes. The SPID number relates to the water access point rather than your business, so you will only get new SPID numbers if you move premises. But otherwise, your SPIDs will remain the same for the duration you remain in one place.

The SPID number is crucial information for customers, businesses, and water suppliers. Inaccurate meter readings can be an annoyance, but serious leaks can cause considerable damage and disruption. Supplier monitoring of usage is important to ensure regular service for all. It’s a far more important detail to keep on hand than it might initially seem.