Utility bills
Here is an overview of the utility bills you are responsible for.
Council tax
You are responsible for paying council tax on your property. 
Council tax is tax set by local councils to help pay for local services. The amount you have to pay depends on the value of your house, although some people are entitled to discounts. Contact your local council for more information.
Water rates
You are responsible for paying your water rates.
Most water suppliers offer you a range of ways to pay your bill, including:
- by post
- direct debit
- online
- at a bank or post office.
If you have a water meter your bills are based on how much water you use. If you do not have a water meter your bills will usually be based on the rateable value of your property. The rate you pay depends on where you live.
Try Severn Trent Water on 0845 750 0500 for a quote.
Gas and electricity bills
You are responsible for paying your gas and electricity bills.
You can get your gas and electricity from a number of suppliers. See a copy of Yellow Pages or Thompson Directory for a listing. An online price comparison website may help you compare price plans.
The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) regulates Britain's gas and electricity industry. Its role is to promote choice and value for customers. They can be contacted on 020 7901 7000.
Telephone bills
You are responsible for paying your telephone bill.
You can get your telephone rental from a number of suppliers. See a copy of Yellow Pages or Thompson Directory for a listing. An online price comparison site may help you compare price plans.
The Office of Communications (Ofcom) regulates Britain's Telecommunications industry. Its role is to promote choice and value for customers. They can be contacted on 020 7981 3000.
TV licence
You are required by law to purchase a TV licence if you use a TV or any other device to receive or record TV programmes.
You are responsible for purchasing your TV licence from TV Licensing. There are a number of ways to pay for your licence including by direct debit, by cheque or by paying online.
Contact TV Licensing on 0870 241 6468 or at www.tvlicensing.co.uk