A Comprehensive Guide to Paying Your Water Bill in Dearborn Heights

Paying your water bill on time each month is an important responsibility for every resident and business in Dearborn Heights. Fortunately, the city offers numerous convenient payment options to choose from. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the various ways to pay your Dearborn Heights water bill, highlight key tips for avoiding late fees, and provide answers to frequently asked payment questions.

Overview of Water Billing in Dearborn Heights

Dearborn Heights provides water utility services to all properties within city limits. Water bills are issued monthly and include charges for water usage, sewer, infrastructure maintenance and operations. Bills are mailed out around the 15th of each month and due by the date listed on your statement, typically within 15-20 days.

Usage is metered in hundred cubic feet (CCF) units based on actual water consumption at your property, Your bill also includes fixed monthly fees that vary based on meter size Sewer charges are calculated as a percentage of your total water usage, Meter readings occur at the beginning of each monthly billing cycle,

Review your monthly statement carefully to ensure all charges appear accurate before submitting payment Keep reading for ways to pay your water bill on time

Payment Options in Dearborn Heights

Dearborn Heights offers numerous options for residents and businesses to pay their water bills conveniently

• In Person at City Hall during business hours (M-Th 8am – 5pm) in cash, check or money order. A drop box is also available for after hours.

• By Mail using the return envelope provided with your bill to send a check or money order.

• Automatic Withdrawal from checking/savings electronically on due date each month.

• Online Bill Pay through your bank or credit union’s free bill pay service.

• Online Credit/Debit Card payments through the city’s third-party processor (fees apply).

• By Phone via credit/debit card by calling 855-340-4490 (fees apply).

Review your payment choices to select the option that fits your needs and preferences each month. Many find automatic payments to be the most convenient and timely method.

Avoid Late Payment Penalties

Dearborn Heights water bills must be paid by the due date printed on your monthly statement to avoid late fees being assessed. If payment is not received on time, the following late penalties will apply:

• 5 days late: 10% penalty fee added

• 25 days late: Additional 10% penalty plus water shut-off notice issued

• 35 days late: Water service scheduled for shut-off due to non-payment

In addition to late fees, costs to turn your water back on will apply if it is shut off from non-payment. Avoid penalties and service interruptions by paying on time each month without fail.

Setting Up Automatic Bill Payment

The easiest way to ensure your water bill gets paid on time every month is to enroll in automatic payments. This authorizes the city to withdraw your balance due directly from your bank account each month.

To set up automatic bill payment:

1. Download the authorization form from the city’s website.

2. Fill out the form with your account and banking details.

3. Mail the completed form to City Hall at 6045 Fenton St, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127.

Once enrolled, you’ll still receive a monthly bill statement for your records but the balance due will be drafted from your account automatically on the due date. No stamps required!

Paying Online via Credit/Debit Card

While automatic bank withdrawals are best, some residents may prefer the convenience of paying their water bill online using a credit or debit card. The city offers online payments through a secure third-party processor that applies a small service fee at checkout.

To pay your water bill online by card:

1. Visit www.divdat.com

2. Search for your account by number, name, or address.

3. Select your account and click “Make Payment”

4. Enter your card details and pay the balance due plus processing fees.

Your online payment will typically post to your account within 1-2 business days. Processing fees apply but can provide quick convenience.

Troubleshooting Billing Errors or Issues

If you find any discrepancies, inaccurate charges, or issues on your water bill, immediately contact the Dearborn Heights Water Department for assistance. Reach out to them via:

• Phone: 313-791-6000

• Email: [email protected]

• In person at City Hall: 6045 Fenton St.

Be sure to note your account number, the specific issues identified, and any key dates or billing cycles involved when reporting errors. The Water Department will investigate the matter and make corrections to your account as needed. Pay only the undisputed portion until resolved.

Avoid Estimated Billing

If a meter reader is unable to access your meter, your bill may be estimated based on previous usage history. However, this can lead to inaccuracy. Ensure your meter is readily accessible each month and free of obstructions like debris or bushes. Contact the Water Department immediately if you believe your bill was estimated or if the read appears inaccurate in any way.

Closing or Transferring Service

If you are moving out of Dearborn Heights or transferring water service to a new name due to sale of the property, be sure to contact the Water Department to finalize your account. Provide at least 7 days advance notice for final meter readings and billings. Transferring an existing account to a new owner also requires completion of a Service Agreement.

Water Bill Payment Tips and Reminders

Paying your water bill on time doesn’t have to be a challenge. Keep these tips in mind to stay on track:

• Mark your due date on your calendar each month when you receive the bill.

• If enrolled in auto-pay, verify your account has sufficient funds before the due date.

• Sign up for paperless billing to receive reminders via email.

• Pay immediately upon receipt instead of waiting until the due date.

• Avoid estimated readings by keeping your meter accessible.

• Contact the Water Department immediately with any billing disputes.

• Update account and contact information if you move residences.

• Confirm new owners complete a Service Agreement when transferring property.

Responsibly paying your monthly water bill ensures continuous service while avoiding fees. Dearborn Heights provides flexible payment options and stellar support to make the process quick and painless for all residents and businesses.