Householders in the former Mid-Kent water area, which includes Hartley, will see water charges rise by 7.9% this year - the biggest increase in England and Wales. The average increase for houses paying by water rate will be even higher at 9.5%, those on water meters will see an average rise of 7.4%
According to the industry regulator, Ofwat, South East Water can raise prices this year by inflation (3%), plus 2.7%, plus "unused price limit" of 2.53%.
More details of the new charges is at:
Ofwat - South East Charges for 2009-10