Atlanta water-bill spike-credit proposal put on hold

Atlanta’s City Utilities Committee unanimously held Sept. 29 a proposal to allow credits for documented errors behind sharp spikes in recorded water usage. Ordinance 26-O-1545 would change water and sewer billing-adjustment procedures.

Eligibility would require a one-month recorded spike greater than 300% of the customer’s prior 12-month average, consistent usage in the preceding 12 months and following three months, and an inspection by a leak-detection specialist or licensed plumber within 30 days of the bill’s payment due date finding no leaks. The spike could not be part of a seasonal or annual pattern, and the Water and Sewer Appeals Board would have to find a city recording error rather than actual consumption.

The credit would generally cover the difference between recorded usage and 150% of normal usage, with an alternative calculation when that comparison is not possible or representative. Credits would be limited to one billing period in each rolling 18-month period.

The minutes list Oct. 5 at 1 p.m. as the next checkpoint. The recorded hold does not enact the proposed credit procedure.