Below is a sample of commonly asked or confusing questions. Call 248-246-3160 with your question!
Q. Do I need to have my water service turned on or transferred into my name?
A. Generally the answer is no. Bills are sent to "Water Customer" not to a specifically named person and residential water service is not turned off unless specifically requested. However, if you find that you do not have water service after occupying the home, please contact the Water Billing Department to schedule an appointment to have the water service turned on.
Q. Has the prior owner requested a final bill?
A. It is a good idea to check with the Water Billing Department to verify that the previous owner has requested a final water bill. We can tell you the amount billed to the prior owner for water use as well as whether this amount has been paid. If a final bill has not been requested, we can tell you what is required in order for a final bill to be generated.
Q. When should I expect my first water bill?
A. Residential water bills are prepared quarterly. The exact billing period will depend on the area the resident lives in. Each quarterly bill is mailed approximately three weeks after the meter is read and is due 24 days later.
Q. What should I do if I have a question about the amount I was billed?
A. You may contact the Water Billing Department 248-246-3160 with any questions. Please have your current meter reading when calling. To obtain the current reading simply read the six digits on the face of the meter, from left to right. Or if the meter is an older style dial meter, begin with the largest numbered dial, reading each subsequent dial. If the dial is between two numbers, always read the lowest number.
Q. Why did the City change the water bill format?
A. The City has improved the format of your water bill from a postcard to letter size. This provides an easier to read format and enables the City to provide you with additional billing detail. Future bills will have additional information printed on the back and provide customers with a blue return envelope so that the City can efficiently sort incoming mail.
The City will also be able to send electronic invoices via email to help reduce postage costs. Watch for future information on how to sign up for this service as the program is implemented.
Customers will also be able to access their water accounts on our website. Watch for information as it becomes available.
Please be aware that the City offers automatic debit for payment of bills which saves the City time and money in processing. Check here for automatic debit information.