Dispute High Water Bill

Summary

Disputing a high water bill can involve checking your water meter, reviewing billing history, and contacting the water company. If unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the ohio public utilities commission or taking the matter to small claims court. Filing costs range from $30-$100. Success in court depends on the evidence and arguments presented by both parties. The government does not automatically win; the judge will decide based on fairness and evidence. If the water company cannot prove the cause of high usage, you may have a reasonable chance of winning.

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$* water bill. Jan. * - Jan. * was told I used * gallons of water. Was told it was probably a toilet leak that fixed itself. I can't find any math that supports that. Is it worth it to try to fight or will that cost me as much or more than the bogus bill?
Hi ****! That sounds frustrating. Here are a few options:
- Check your water meter for any discrepancies.
- Review your billing history for any unusual spikes.
- Contact the water company for a detailed explanation and dispute the bill.
- Small claims court is an option if the dispute isn't resolved.
Have you already contacted the water company to discuss the issue?
yes
Thanks for the details, ****! If you've already contacted the water company and the issue isn't resolved, you might consider escalating the matter. Here are your options:
- Request a formal investigation: Ask the water company for a formal review or investigation of your bill.
- Public Utilities Commission: File a complaint with the Ohio Public Utilities Commission.
- Small Claims Court: You could take the case to small claims court if other methods fail.
Would you like more information on any of these options?
how much would small claims court and what are my chances of winning since there is no proof of anything for either side.
Case Rating: *
In Ohio, the cost to file a small claims case is around $*-$*, depending on the court. As for your chances of winning without concrete proof, it can be challenging. The judge will consider the credibility of both parties, any documentation you can provide, and the reasonableness of your argument.
Would you like more specific details about filing in a particular court?
But if the other side can't prove it either, would they win just because they are the government?
Case Rating: *
In small claims court, the judge will consider the evidence and arguments presented by both sides. The government doesn't automatically win just because they are the government. Each party must present their case, and the judge will make a decision based on the evidence and fairness.
Would you like more information on how to present your case effectively in small claims court?
So if the water company can't prove that a leaking toilet can cause * gallons of water to be used in a 20 day period, I should win?
Case Rating: *
If the water company cannot prove that a leaking toilet caused the high water usage, and you can show that there are no other plausible explanations for the usage, you have a reasonable chance of winning.
Would you like more information on how to gather evidence and present your case effectively in small claims court?