Understand your water bill | Broward County Community News#
3 mins read

Understand your water bill | Broward County Community News#

We understand that higher water bills can be frustrating, and we want to make clear why prices have changed and how you can better manage your water use. While interest rates have increased, some invoice pesks may be due to hidden leaks or changes in household consumption.

Why are my prices higher?

As part of Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure, the city makes critical improvements to ensure a more reliable, efficient and sustainable water system for all residents.

Prospect Lake Clean Water Center

  • The city is building a state -of -the -art water treatment plant to replace the aging Fiveash water treatment plant.
  • This new plant will ensure cleaner, safer water that meets the highest quality standards.

Smart Water Meters – a new tool for you

In the coming months, the city will start installing smart water meters using real -time technology to:

Give more accurate billing

Discover leaks faster so you can avoid unexpected high bills

Strengthen residents to track their own water use via an online portal

Planned interest adjustments

In order to finance these essential improvements, the City Commission gradually approved interest, which began in October 2023. The last increase came into force on 1 October 2024:

Water speeds increased by 22.5%

Wastewater (sewage) increased by 9%

Further increases are planned every October 2028, with adjustments designed to balance infrastructure needs while being handled for the residents.

Can a leak cause your high water bill?

Some residents have reported higher than normal water use, and in many cases a hidden leak may be the culprit. Even small leaks can waste thousands of liters of water each month.

A running toilet can waste up to 200 liters per hour. That’s almost 4,800 liters per day! This can add hundreds of dollars to a monthly bill.

Other common household leaks include:

  • Dripping taps – a slow drip can waste up to 3,000 liters per year.
  • Irrigation system leaks – a broken sprinkler head can waste hundreds of gallons per water cycle.
  • Pipe leaks under the sink or inside walls – these often go unnoticed but can cause nails on your behalf.

Find more water -saving tips on ftlcity.info/waterrates.

Adjustment options with high water bill

Residents who experience unusual or high water consumption can apply for a one -off adjustment adjustment with the form below.

Application for adjustment of high use

Leak adjustment: If a repaired leak caused the high bill, you can apply for an adjustment. Proof of repairs (eg receipts) is required. If a leak is suspected but not yet identified, a licensed plumber is recommended. This adjustment calculates your behalf to the lowest level.

Inexplicable consumption adjustment: If there is no reason for the high use, you can apply for a one -off credit per service site. This adjustment calculates your behalf to the lowest level.

Need help paying your water bill?

If you are struggling with your behalf, the city offers payment plans and financial support options. Call 954-828-5150 or e-mail [email protected] to learn about available programs.

We appreciate your patience, understanding and partnership as we work to create a stronger, more resistant water system for Fort Lauderdale.


Connect to your customers and grow your business

Click here