Information About Your Bill

How does Charleston Water System calculate my water bill?

What is Charleston Water System's billing cycle?

Why is there a charge for the storm water fee on my water bill?

How does Charleston Water System calculate my sewer bill?

What is the Sewer Cap Program?

What is an irrigation meter?

Will I be charged for sewer while my home is under construction?

Does Charleston Water System bill for other sewer utilities?

Does Charleston Water System charge a late fee for past-due bills?

What is Automated Meter Reading (AMR)?

How does Charleston Water System calculate my water bill?
Our billing structure is based on usage measured in cubic feet, where 100 cubic feet is equal to 1 Ccf and 1Ccf equals 748 gallons (100 cf = 1 Ccf = 748 gallons).

Your water rates depend on where you live and your water usage. Charleston Water System has a minimum bill structure, meaning we charge all customers a minimum monthly bill of 2 Ccf's of usage (1,496 gallons). So, if you use any amount of water less than 2 Ccf's in one month, you will still be charged for 2 Ccf's. Once you use the first two ccf's, you will be charged a specific rate for each additional Ccf.

Click here to learn more about our rate structure.

What is Charleston Water System's billing cycle?
Your water meter is read approximately every 28-31 days. It is important to keep the area around your meter free of any obstacles such as debris, automobiles, bushes or unfriendly dogs, which can sometimes prevent us from reading your meter. If we are unable to get a reading, your bill will be estimated based on your previous water usage. The following month, an actual reading will be taken and any necessary adjustments will be made at that time.

Your bill should be paid in full by the due date shown on your statement. Your account will become past due if not paid by this date and will be subject to a late fee charge and possible interruption of service. Please contact us immediately if you do not receive a bill. You are still responsible for paying the bill.

Why is there a charge for the storm water fee on my water bill?
If you live inside the City of Charleston, you will find included in your bill a charge for the City of Charleston's Storm Water Utility. Charleston Water System acts as a billing and collection agent for the City—all funds are forwarded to the City of Charleston. Charleston Water System does not determine the fee, nor are we responsible for storm water drainage. If you have any questions regarding the storm water fee, please contact the City of Charleston's Storm Water Utility at (843) 724-7246.

How does Charleston Water System calculate my sewer bill?
Single-family residential wastewater bills are based on 90% of monthly water usage. Residential accounts with an irrigation meter and non-residential and multi-family accounts are billed at 100% of water usage. Charleston Water System charges a minimum bill for the first 3 Ccf's and a specific rate for each additional Ccf, up to 16 Ccf. Residential accounts are not charged for any sewer usage above 16 Ccf.

Click here to learn more about you sewer charges.

What is the Sewer Cap Program?
Charleston Water System realizes that during warm weather months, residents may significantly increase their water usage in activities that don't utilize Charleston Water System's wastewater system (such as watering lawns, filling pools, etc). Our Sewer Cap Program is designed to address the needs of these customers. Customers who use 16 Ccf (11,968 gallons) or more of water a month will be charged a maximum set rate for sewer. You can continue to use as much water as you like, but any water used over the 16 Ccf will not be charged any additional sewer fees.

What is an irrigation meter?
If you frequently water your lawn or garden, you may want to consider applying for a separate irrigation meter. These meters are charged for water consumption only. Contact our Customer Service Department at (843) 727-6800 for current rates and procedures.

Will I be charged for sewer while my home is under construction?
In order to minimize the financial impact to homebuilders in the City of Charleston,Charleston Water System will waive the monthly sewer charge on homes under construction until one of the following occurs:

1. Actual sewer usage begins
2. A certificate of occupancy is issued
3. The maximum time period of six months has passed. Upon receipt of a monthly bill, the homeowner should strike though the sewer charges, write the words “home under construction, Attention: Billing Dept.” and return with payment.

Does Charleston Water System bill for other sewer utilities?
Yes, Charleston Water System provides billing services for several sewer districts in the Tri-County area; however, we do not operate the sewer system for these agencies, nor do we respond to maintenance calls or set wastewater rates. All questions concerning sewer service in these districts should be directed to the appropriate agency.

Does Charleston Water System charge a late fee for past-due bills?
Yes, an administrative fee will be added to your account if the past due balance (excluding Storm Drain charges) is not posted to your account by 5:00 pm on the business day prior to the scheduled date of interruption of service. This charge covers the administrative costs required to process past due accounts for possible disconnection of service to include account research, use of computer time and, if necessary, the cost of disconnecting and reconnecting the service.

What is Automated Meter Reading (AMR)?
Automated Meter Reading, or AMR, is a new technology that allows meters to be read automatically using a laptop computer. These high-tech meters emit a radio signal that is picked up by a laptop computer, and allow meters to be read by driving slowly down a route and picking up signals rather than having to physically read every meter. Charleston Water System began pilot testing this new technology in 2003. The benefits of AMR include more precise meter readings and improved efficiency.

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