Understanding Regulation of Non-Utility Water Supply Systems from the Household Perspective

Abstract PurposeThe article seeks to examine the understanding of regulation of Non-Utility Water Supply Systems (NUWSS) from perspective of water users in households, the behavioural dimensions of regulation and aspects of the non-utility water supply system that can be regulated.Research Method/DesignThe theory of planned behaviour was used to identify determinants to regulatory compliance across the groups of indicators identified for the regulation of water supply systems. To understand household perception of regulation, interviews were conducted, with questions put to water users in households. A qualitative research approach was adopted, using interviews, and focus group discussion with water users in households.FindingsThe findings indicate that households hold varied perceptions on regulation across the components of the water supply system. Specifically, regulatory compliance by households was influenced by crucial elements such as preferential compliance to regulation within specific aspects of the water supply system. Limitations and implicationsThe inference from this research is based on households from one state in Nigeria. Further exploration of this research in multiple cities and states would widen the applicability of the findings in different contexts.Originality/valueThe study examines regulation and regulatory compliance from the perspective of households who predominantly use Non-Utility Water Supply System (NUWSS) in sub-Saharan Africa.