While the warmer spring months are just on the horizon, people are still facing freezing temperatures and rocketing energy bills as they creep up the heating in their homes. Unfortunately, one woman has come across a new costly dilemma as her water bill is becoming too expensive to maintain.
The issue arose after the woman discovered that her new neighbour is using her outdoor tap. Taking to popular online forum Mumsnet, the woman explained the struggles of her neighbour's expensive habit.
Previously, the neighbours came to an agreement with previous occupiers, but it's now burning a hole in the new homeowner's pocket instead.
The woman explained: "I have just purchased a ground floor maisonette, which has a garden split into two and shared with the maisonette above.
"The previous owner was good friends with the owners above, and so they never fenced around each other.
"There is one outside tap on my part of the garden, which is connected to my water supply," she added.
The woman explained how the former owners came to an agreement with the people next door.
However, she's keen to see an end to the ordeal after sharing her intentions of wanting to confront the neighbour.
She said: "Historically, the owners above have been using this tap to water their garden.
"I have just been informed that we're going on a water meter."
Seeking advice, she questioned: "Am I being unreasonable to suggest that they stop using as I can't afford and don't want to be (!) paying for their usage?!"
The post, which has rocketed in responses since posting, received an array of comments from Mumsnet users on how the woman should approach the situation.
One user suggested: "Surely once you tell them that you are going to be on a meter they won't have a leg to stand on."
"Absolutely, but don't 'suggest'," another user added. "Tell them in a friendly manner that as you're now going into water meters you are unable to afford for them to use your supply."
The woman was grateful for everyone's responses, saying: "Thanks everyone for your replies and support!
"Trying to get the balance of not p*****g off neighbours as soon as I move in, but also not adding to ever increasing bills!!"
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