27 Sept 2019
First meeting, hosted at the Suffolk home of Clive and Suzanne Stevens. 31 people from dealerships across the country attended, many of whom had never spoken face to face.
Why we exist
Challenging misinformation in the water industry
Some of the biggest names in water softening call themselves impartial advisers while selling their own brand. Meanwhile, homeowners are faced with a flood of misleading claims, miracle gadgets and scare-led selling. We formed the Quality Water Association to show homeowners there's an alternative: local experts with no brand to push, nothing to hide, and the knowledge to back up their recommendations.
TRUST INWATER
Who we are
A not-for-profit, run by its members
The Quality Water Association is a not-for-profit, member-led organisation set up to raise standards in the UK's water softening and treatment industry. It began life as the Association of Independent Water Softener Experts (AIWSE).
Our members are independent water treatment specialists from across the UK, many of them family-run businesses with strong regional roots. Many competed with each other for years before coming together under one shared aim: to give consumers high-quality, ethical, expert-led advice and service in water softening and filtration.
All members are vetted, insured, and committed to continuous development and best practice.
Our origins
Competitors who decided to work together
The association was born out of significant industry changes in 2019 that left many independent dealers uncertain about the future. Long-time competitors met face to face for the first time to protect and promote the values that define good service.
Late 2019
A second meeting builds on the momentum. A board is elected and the name agreed: The Association of Independent Water Softener Experts. Founding board: Paul Webb (Chairman), Chris Smith (Secretary), Peter Hines (Treasurer), Tony Patmore (Membership Secretary).
Jan 2020
The association is officially formed. Despite the pandemic, the website is registered, a business account opened, and £4,000 pledged by board members to support development.
2026
AIWSE becomes the Quality Water Association. New name, same independent experts.
Our mission
Our purpose is threefold
Promote professional standards
In an unregulated sector, the QWA offers peace of mind to consumers by ensuring members adhere to a consistent code of conduct and technical competency.
Support independent businesses
Resources, shared knowledge and promotional tools to help independent dealers grow and thrive.
Educate and challenge misinformation
Water treatment is full of half-truths, from exaggerated health claims to gadgets that promise the earth. We publish clear, evidence-based guidance and call out misleading claims, so homeowners and businesses can make well-informed decisions about their water quality.
Why choose a QWA member
A certified professional who meets our standards for quality and service
Vetted and insured
Every member is checked and carries professional indemnity insurance.
Trained and certified
Ongoing training, with certification for the company and its staff.
Local and independent
A real local business, not a national brand in disguise.
Transparent and ethical
Written quotations and honest advice, even when it costs a sale.
Our quality guarantee
What you can expect from every member
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Written quotations
- Transparent pricing
- Quality workmanship guarantee
- Follow-up support
18
member firms
21
counties covered
Run an independent water treatment business?
Join the association that puts honest advice first. Membership is open to genuinely independent UK specialists.