Water Bills Set to Rise as WASREB Approves New Tariffs and Penalties

The Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB) has approved new water tariff structures and penalties, setting the stage for increased water charges across counties.

In a gazette notice dated June 19 , 2026 , the regulator said the decision follows a review process under the Water Act, 2016, aimed at improving service delivery, strengthening the financial sustainability of water utilities, and protecting consumer interests.

The changes will apply over the financial years 2026/2027 to 2028/2029.

According to WASREB, the affected  water companies include Nyasare Water Supply and Sanitation Company (NYAWASCO) and Elwak Water and Sewerage Company (ELWASCO), among others, with customers expected to receive formal notices within one month.

“ WASREB hereby gives a one-month notice from the date of this communication to all existing and potential customers of NYAWASCO that the structure of approved tariffs for water services for the three financial years 2026/2027, 2027/2028 and 2028/2029 shall be as follows,” read part of the notice.

WASREB Reveals Revised Tariffs For NYAWASCO

Under the revised structure, NYAWASCO domestic and residential tariffs range from KSh 120 to KSh 220 per cubic meter, depending on consumption levels across the billing blocks.

Further, multi-dwelling units, including residential apartments and flats, will be paying a flat rate of KSh 135 per unit monthly.

WASREB noted that the commercial and industrial users under NYAWASCO will face higher charges ranging from Ksh 150 to Ksh 240 per unit, while government institutions will also be billed within similar higher consumption brackets, depending on usage.

Public schools, colleges, and universities will pay between Ksh 150 and Ksh 300 per unit, while water kiosks remain the lowest category at around Ksh 50 per unit.

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ELWASCO Tariffs Also Revised Upwards

For Elwak Water and Sewerage Company (ELWASCO), which serves areas including Elwak and Wargadud, domestic consumers will now pay between Ksh 120 and Ksh 220 per cubic meter, depending on usage blocks.

According to WASREB, revised tariffs for commercial and industrial users will range between Ksh 150 and Ksh 240 per unit, while government institutions will pay similar rates depending on consumption levels.

Additionally, Water kiosks under ELWASCO will be charged about Ksh 50 per unit, with bowsing points set at higher bulk rates.

WASREB further noted that the tariff review has resulted in mixed outcomes across different water service providers.

Meanwhile, while NYAWASCO and ELWASCO received upward tariff adjustments effective from mid-2026 implementation notices, other utilities, such as the Bomet Water Sanitation Company (BOMWASCO) recorded reduced tariffs aimed at improving affordability and service delivery.

Also Read: Mombasa Water Announces Job Vacancies: How to Apply

Penalties for Illegal Water Use and Fraud

WASREB also introduced strict penalties targeting illegal water connections, meter tampering, and fraud across all affected utilities.

According to the institution, Industrial and commercial illegal connections will attract a fine of Ksh 100,000 plus estimated consumption charges for the period of illegality.

In addition, residential illegal connections will attract a penalty of Ksh 30,000 plus estimated consumption charges, while unauthorized reconnections after disconnection will cost Ksh 5,000, with billing backdated to the cut-off date.

Other penalties include:

• KSh 5,000 for tampering, reversing, or removing water meters
• KSh 10,000 for direct suction of water from supply lines using pumps
• KSh 15,000 for overcharging at water kiosks in certain utilities

WASREB warned that utilities and responsible officials who fail to comply with the new tariff structure and regulatory conditions may face sanctions under the Water Act, 2016.

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WASREB Approves New Water Rates and Penalties. Photo/ file