Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does my bill change from month to month?

Bills change according to water usage, which fluctuates as a result of a number of things, including the number of people who live at a property. Everyone has different personal water habits that will affect the amount of water used in a given month, and water consumption may vary from season to season. Many customers increase their water consumption in the summer months by using water cooled air conditioning, watering gardens, washing cars, filling swimming pools, etc. Bills may also fluctuate based on the number of days in a billing period. The Needham Water and Sewer Division bills residential accounts every three months, commercial accounts once a month, and seasonal meter accounts annually. Most bills are based on actual readings, while estimated bills are based on usage history.

Why is my bill so high?

Bills change according to water usage, which fluctuates from month to month. Many customers increase their water consumption in the summer months by using water cooled air conditioning, watering gardens, washing cars, filling swimming pools, etc. Otherwise, a drastic increase in consumption could be an indication that a problem at a property exists and should be inspected for leaks by checking all plumbing, fixtures, and water appliances.

How do I check for leaks?

Check plumbing in the basement by monitoring for drips of water coming from exposed pipes.

Occasionally, leaks develop behind walls or in areas that are not visible. Read your meter periodically to monitor for drastic changes.

Faucets

Check all faucets and piping for leaks by monitoring for drips of water under sinks and from exposed pipes. Perform an inspection with the water on and off, as some leaks only occur when the water is on.

Toilets

Add a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the food coloring appears in the toilet bowl, this means you have a leak. Some toilet leaks are intermittent, so you don't always see or hear the water running.

How can I lower my bill and conserve water?

Bills change according to water usage, which can fluctuate based on personal water habits. You can lower the water consumption at your property by installing water saving devices or following some simple conservation tips.

Why is my bill estimated?

Actual readings are obtained monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the type of account with an advanced encoder-based remote meter reading system. The metering information shall be obtained through a remotely located receptacle or Meter Interface Unit (MIU) using a compatible data capture system. If the MIU is not functioning, you will receive an estimated bill based on previous usage. If your property is equipped with the MIU system and you receive an estimated bill, please call the Department of Public Works (DPW) at 781-455-7550.

Why is my sewer charge higher than my water charge?

Your sewer charge is based on the water consumption at your property. Sewer rates are higher than water rates due to a mandate to clean Boston Harbor and ongoing projects for sewerage treatment by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA).

Can I pay my bill online or over the phone?

Bills cannot be paid over the phone or online.

Can I pay my bill with a credit card?

The Needham Town Treasurer does not accept credit cards for payment as of this time.

I am moving. What should I do?

If you are moving, it is necessary to update the mailing address on your account by contacting the DPW at 781-455-7550.

I am buying / selling property. What should I do?

If you are purchasing or selling a home in Needham, contact the DPW at 781-455-7550 to request a final meter read and a lien certificate. The lien certificate should be presented at the home's closing to ensure the seller pays all accrued charges.

I will temporarily be away. What should I do?

If you will be away for an extended period of time, you may submit a written request to shut off the water service at your property to:
Needham DPW
500 Dedham Avenue
Needham, MA 02492

Once the water service is shut off, all faucets should be completely drained. In addition, you should notify the DPW of your forwarding address, so that you may receive your water and sewer bills. The DPW has a return service with the Post Office, and any bills which are undeliverable are returned to the DPW.

How do I prevent my pipes from freezing?

It is the responsibility of the property owner to protect the service pipe and water meter from freezing. If your meter does freeze, the Water and Sewer Division will replace the meter, and your account will be assessed a meter replacement fee. If the service pipe freezes, it is the owner's responsibility to thaw the frozen pipe or consult a licensed plumber.

Tips on preventing your pipes from freezing:

Insulate water meter and pipes in unheated spaces like garages, basements, and crawl spaces.
Additionally, insulating hot water pipes will decrease your wait time for warm water.
Repair broken and cracked windows, doors, and walls. Close all doors and windows near pipes, and make sure there is no draft.
During cold weather (prolonged temperatures below 32 degrees), allow a slow trickle of water to flow through faucets connected to water pipes that run through unheated spaces.
Disconnect garden hoses, and install covers on all outside faucets. Shut off water to outside faucets, and drain those water lines.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

Do not use an open flame to thaw a frozen pipe. This is not only a fire hazard, it could also cause a steam explosion. Use a hair dryer or heat lamp to thaw a frozen pipe, and open a nearby faucet to release vapor from melting ice.

When pipes are frozen, there is often water available at one faucet but not another. If there is no water at all, the problem may be in the street. Call the DPW, Water and Sewer Division at 781-455-7550.

How do I read my water meter?

Your water meter is read from left to right, just like a car odometer. Your meter reads in cubic feet. 7.48 gallons equals 1 cubic foot (cuft.) of water.

Can I obtain a bill history or a duplicate bill for my account?

Yes, contact the DPW at 781-455-7550.

How can I change my mailing address?

If you are moving, it is necessary to update the mailing address on your account. You may contact the DPW at 781-455-7550.