Updated: Are You Eligible for a Free Water Butt?

POV: Yesterday my water butt arrived only to discover that it was too large to be able to move around it. The engineer told me that I was the third one that day that he couldn't fit. Here is a little bit of information to save time and trouble for all involved:

The Water but is a similar footprint to your brown wheelie bin only quite a bit taller. So if you're not sure if you've room put your wheelie bin in the space and see if you can move around it and you're happy with the likely change in appearance.

It can only be attached where you have a downspout and only on a flat surface so if like mine your grid is proud the it will take up a bigger footprint than you'd hoped for.

If you find you can't fit one of the free ones there are others on the market for sale including ones with a plantable lid, a narrower fit and ones you can attach a hose pipe to. I have one on my cabin and I never have to water the herb bed it flows into.

Hope this helps! Lori x

Severn Trent is rolling out thousands of water butts in areas most impacted by surface water drainage issues to help reduce flooding, ease pressure on sewers, and protect the environment.

By capturing and storing rainwater, the initiative helps prevent sewer spills and supports healthier rivers. It forms part of Severn Trent’s wider £450 million investment to improve river health.

Find out More here: https://www.stwater.co.uk/wonderful-on-tap/save-water/water-butts-checker/

Are You Eligible for a Free Water Butt? created 6th June 2026