In the third quarter of 2012/2013, the water firm rose to 12 out of 21 in the qualitive measure of the service incentive mechanism (SIM). It was placed at 16 at the end of 2011/2012.
The number of customer complaints raised with United Utilities by the Consumer Council for Water fell over the quarter, which will contribute to a better score in the quantitative element of the SIM.
Trading was in line with expectations. Revenue continued to increase slightly below the regulated price rise for the year, due to low commercial volumes.
Meanwhile, depreciation, power and other costs increased, which largely offset the increase in revenue, according to the utility.
The firm said it was confident of a good underlying financial performance for the year ending 31 March 2013. It is focused on operational and customer service progress and “sees plenty of scope to deliver further improvements”.