55.This section inserts new sections 20C and 20D into the 2005 Act.
56.New section 20C of the 2005 Act requires the owner of premises to which water or sewerage services are provided by a licensed provider (i.e. a provider licensed under section 6 of the 2005 Act) to provide information to the provider in respect of any change in occupancy. The Scottish Ministers may by regulations add to the information to be provided, and make rules on the timing of and procedure for the provision of information.
57.New section 20D of the 2005 Act provides that if the owner fails without reasonable excuse to advise the provider that a new occupier has taken occupancy, then the owner becomes jointly and severally liable with the new occupier for relevant charges. The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make rules on the timing of when joint liability arises and associated procedures, and for exempting from liability owners who have taken prescribed steps to ensure the accuracy and completeness of information provided by them.