Is Your Water Bill Higher Than Normal? 

Customers may experience a significant increase in their monthly water billing from a water leak from a broken pipe/fitting or other water device. The leak resulted in significant increase in consumption, e.g. 150% higher than expected considering the overall history of the account. Electrical shorts or other electric appliance malfunctions may also fall under this policy although verification may be more extensive.

Eligibility Criteria:  For adjustment consideration under this policy, all of the following criteria must be met:

1. The repair of the leak was completed not more than one month ago. 
2. The leak resulted in significant increase in consumption, e.g. 150% higher than expected considering the overall history of the account.
3. The significant increase is arguably not attributable to seasonal or other operational changes (drought, irrigation, etc.).

Verification: 

• Request for adjustment should include a repair receipt from a state certified plumber stating the repair work included a broken pipe/fitting or other water device that resulted in a leak.

• If the homeowner repaired the leak, verification will be done by City personnel visiting the site and viewing any evidence of the repair work.

Adjustment: 

• The City may either spread the “excess” costs over three months, or may adjust the billing to the City’s cost – but not both.  The City’s cost will include pumping raw water to the plant, treating the raw water into finished water, and distributing the finished water to the customer. 

• If the bill has been paid prior to requesting consideration under this policy, a credit will be applied to the account for the calculated difference.  The customer will not be given a refund.