Overview

Your water bills may change each billing cycle, due to a variety of factors. We understand that unusually high bills can burden your household budget. 

Learn how your bill is calculated.

Common reasons for an unusually high bill

Longer service period

The service period is the time from your last meter read to your current meter read. If this time period is longer than the normal service period, your bill may be higher. 

The normal service period for Baltimore City customers is 30 days and for Baltimore County customers it is 90 days. 

Estimated meter read

If we can’t read your water meter during your service time, we will guess how much water you used. We base this guess on how much water you usually use each day.

You can see the kind of meter reading on your bill under Meter Reading Details.

We will fix your bill when we get a real meter reading. You might owe more money or get money back.

More water was used

You may have used more water during this time. Here are some common reasons why:

  • Visitors: More people in your home means more showers and toilet flushes.
  • Hot weather: You might water your grass or wash your car more when it’s warm.

To see why you used more water, check your daily use in the Self-Service portal You can also call our customer service team for help.

Curious how much water your household uses? Use the U.S. Geological Survey's Water Consumption Calculator to estimate your daily use and learn tips to conserve water. 

 

Possible water leaks

You are charged for the water that goes through your meter. If there’s a leak in your home or on your property, your bill can go up.

Toilets and faucets that leak are the most common reason for higher water bills. It’s your job to fix leaks in your home or yard. Learn more about detecting and fixing leaks. 

Note: City work, like fixing water or sewer pipes, does not change how much water you use.

 

Get more help 

Still have concerns about a high water bill and need help looking into it? Contact our customer service team to request a review of your water bill. Learn what happens during a water bill review. 

Contact us 
Call: 410-396-5398
Email: Customer Support & Services ​​
Visit: Abel Wolman Municipal Building
200 Holliday Street
First Floor Room 8
Baltimore, MD 21202