WASA is responding to claims that water rates will go up because of the property tax.

Yesterday, former Minister Mariano Browne allegedly stated that utility rates were going to increase since they are pegged to property prices and rates.

WASA says rate increases are determined by the Regulated Industries Commission, which is mandated under its Act to establish the principles and methodologies by which service providers determine rates.

As such, the Authority says it cannot impose increased rates and charges outside of the process under the RIC Act.

It also insists that there is no basis for any link made to an increase in water and sewerage rates being pegged to the current adjustments to property tax.