If you think your water bill is out of control, you're not alone.
We get complaints from every corner of the Valley that some people's water bill rival their power bill during the hottest months of the Arizona summer.
Once you get a high bill, water companies often have you check to see if you have a leak.
The easiest way to check for that is to shut off water to your house and look at the water meter. It shouldn't be moving and if it is, reach out to a plumber to narrow down where the water is coming from.
If leaks aren't the problem, it could be a broken meter. That can be checked out by the municipality or company that provides your water service. You may be charged to check it, but private utility customers can ask for assistance from the Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC).
Sometimes, your house isn't the problem at all. You just have really high rates.
So you need to find out why. For that, you and your neighbors are going to have to file complaints with the utility that services you.
In the case of municipalities that may mean contacting the water department and the council person who represents your area.
For private utility customers, if you cannot get answers from the company, you can file complaints with the AZCC.
Another resource is to take a look at the rate case for your utility that was approved by the AZCC. It gives detailed explanations about why your rates are structured the way that they are. You may be surprised at what you find.
Need my help?
Contact volunteers with the Assistance League of Phoenix (855) 323-1515 or email Joe@abc15.com
