Guide to Your Water Utility in Wilmington, NC: Understanding CFPUA and Water Conservation
/Okay, you've just signed a lease for an awesome Wilmington, NC apartment that doesn't include water. Your landlord tells you that you must have the water placed in your name before moving in. What do you do, and what are the important things you need to know in order to navigate the world of Cape Fear Water Utility?
Start-Up Costs
CFPUA has a huge monopoly on water here in the Cape Fear River region. It's outrageous and unavoidable. They know it, too, which is why they charge hefty start up deposits if you don't have that perfect credit score you've always wanted. The start-up deposit is around $200 on top of a $55 New Service Fee (non-refundable), plus a $25 Trash New Service Fee if you are getting trash services. Woof!
Bi-monthly Billing
You will be billed every 2 months (around 55 to 65 days). This means that when you receive that bill in the mail that seems outrageous- think again. It's not that bad for the length of time that it has been. It's a habit to think of bills in a monthly cycle but just remind yourself that this amount is for 2 months. The numbers are less startling then.
Late Fees
They mean business with their late fees. And, if you don't pay your bill within 14 days of receiving a delinquent letter? Well, say goodbye to running water in your sweet pad. CFPUA will shut off service to your location for any delinquent accounts after a certain date. Then in order to get the water turned back on, you need to pay a $50 reactivation fee. Yikes! So, be sure to stay on top of that water bill.
Water Consumption
If you use the water, you're going to have to pay for it - and it's not cheap. Maybe lay off washing your car every Saturday afternoon or taking a shower in the morning and at night to save on some cash. Have to bathe your child because he just loves to run and play in the dirt? Try using half the bath water to save. Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth! This is a big water stealer and if pulled back a bit, it can save you a good amount of usage. For more info on how CFPUA measures their water consumption, click here.
Leak Adjustments
Help! My water bill is crazy high because a pipe burst in my Wilmington, NC apartment! If this is your situation or if you have a leaky faucet or runny toilet, you can get an adjustment on your water bill. To do so you must provide a paid receipt from a licensed plumber showing that he fixed the issue. Show this, and as long as the gallon usage was more than double the average consumption, you can get a leak adjustment approved and get a credit on your account. Important to note: these credits are back dated. You must pay the proposed bill first, then they back credit, so it doesn't come off right away.
Special Trash Pick-ups
I have this old mattress I want to get rid of but I have no way of getting it to the county dump- what do I do? Luckily, along with paying for trash and water service with CFPUA, they provide special trash pick-ups for all account holders. Simply call their number, and let them know that you need a special trash pick-up, and they will come pick it up. Pretty helpful, I'd say.
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