Who is responsible if my water meter quits ?

Question

I noticed that my water bill has been not charging for any usage. This has reocccured for three months. It seems that my water meter is not running even though the water is going through the meter as we use it daily.

How should I handle this. Will I be billed for water that has not registered and who is responsible for the meter ?

The city installed new water meters 3 or 4 years ago.

Answer 1

Would they give you a rebate if they said you'd used more ?

I think not.

Can you or they pinpoint when exactly it stopped working, or if you were out of the country, staying at friends or your washing machine was faulty?

I presume you drink bottled water now?

While you may wish to report it, did you request that a meter was fitted in the first place ?

Pay whatever they ask for. I am not advocating anything illegal.

Answer 2

The city has responsibility for the meter, if you call and tell them that it isn't working they will replace it.  Some municipalities will bill for the months that the meter was out, usually based on previous month's consumption, and some will just write it off.

Answer 3

The meter belongs to the water department and they are responsible for repairing/replacing it. I am sure there is a clause in your contract with them that you will pay for usage, even if it does not register. Most use an average of your past usage. Report it before you get a high bill.

Answer 4

The water company is usually responsible and should replace it.  Notify them because they may be within their right to charge an estimate bill for usage.

Answer 5

The Water Company is responsible for all repairs and replacement of the water meter. Call and explain to them the situation and I'm sure they will work something out for you. Also your water usage is lodged in their computer for them to get an idea as to what your bill may be.