At United Utilities we are committed to paying our invoices on time, within the contract terms and processes. We have a programme of reviewing supplier payments, spotting trends and taking the appropriate actions. Supplier invoices can be presented incorrectly and early, leading to rework and not paying our suppliers on time.
Our core system is SAP and we currently have a three-way match between the purchase order, goods receipt and invoice details. We can further improve our invoice payments if you support our programme and follow our basic guidelines for purchase order payments.
Guideline |
Why payment may be delayed |
| Always ensure you have a valid purchase order number prior to providing goods, works or services. Quote the correct purchase order number on your invoices when submitting for payment |
Invoices not quoting a purchase order number will be returned to you to without payment |
| If you are asked to change the requirement once the purchase order has been issued, ensure you receive an updated purchase order |
Invoices for additional requirements will be held for payment until the purchase order has been updated |
| Use the quantity and price details from the purchase order. If you feel this is incorrect, contact our Supply Chain, the name and telephone number is on the purchase order |
Payment is suspended until the prices and quantities on the purchase order and invoice match |
| Ensure that the description on the invoice matches the purchase order. If the description is incorrect contact our Supply Chain, the name and telephone number is on the purchase order |
Payment may be delayed until clarification has been sought that the invoice does relate to the purchase order number quoted |
| Only submit your invoice when goods have been delivered or work has been completed |
Invoices received for goods, works or services that have not been provided, will be returned to you without payment |
| Send your invoices / credit notes direct to our Purchase to Pay department; PO Box 487, Grasmere House, Lingley Mere Business Park, Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, Cheshire, WA5 3LP. |
Could result in late payment |
Thankyou for your support in this initiative.