Municipal Billing Policies for Water Leaks

Meters with transmitters may help municipalities improve their water billing policies and operations and increase customer service.

2016-01-water-pipe-pipeline-leak.jpg

WATER ONLINE

By Sara Jerome

At a time when utilities are struggling with cost pressures and crumbling infrastructure, cities across the country are struggling with questions around their leak policies and if residents should get a break on their bills when they spring a leak.

City councilors in Canton, Ga, debated whether or not to tighten up billing practices by reducing the city’s burden due to leaks at a meeting in November.

“Before seeking relief from a mishap on the customer’s side of the water meter, the resident must identify the source of the leak and have it repaired, according to the new policy. The customer can then submit a Request for Adjustment Form, attaching receipts, invoices or a plumber’s statement to show proof of repairs,” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Continue reading the story, including an example from Buckeye, Ariz., on WaterOnline.com.