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 are unable to read your meter during the service period, we will estimate your water use. The estimate is based on your daily average use.
You can find the type of meter reading on your bill under the Meter Reading Details.
We will adjust your billed amount once we get an actual meter reading. This could result in additional charges or credits to your account.
Estimated readings may happen for a variety of reasons, such as the meter being temporarily removed due to construction or interference with the transmitter’s signal.
More water was used
You may have used more water during the service period. Common reasons for increased use include:
- Guests. Additional people or guests in your home usually leads to more water being used (showers, toilet flushing).
- Warm weather. Activities such as washing your car or watering your lawn and plants can increase your water use.
To identify why you used more water, review your daily use in the Self-Service portal or by contacting our customer service team.
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 billed for the water that passes through your meter. That means a leak in your home’s plumbing or on your property can result in a higher bill.
Leaking toilets and faucets are the most common causes of higher water bills. You are responsible for repairing a leak in your home or on your property. Learn more about detecting and fixing leaks.
Note: Maintenance, repair, or construction work to the City’s main water or sewer lines do not impact your water use amount.
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