Tuesday, August 17, 2010

ATTENTION: DEP Upgrading to Automated Meter Reading System

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection is automating its water meter reading capabilities to increase billing accuracy and provide customers with the tools they need to better manage their water usage.

The Automated Meter Reading (AMR) system is connected to individual water meters that send daily readings. This new AMR technology will send accurate readings to a computerized billing system up to four times a day and will largely eliminate the need for estimated bills. Since it is an automated system, AMR eliminates the need for meter reading personnel to visit customer properties.

DEP is also providing AMR-installed customers with an online system that lets property owners view and manage their consumption on a daily basis. This application will be made available to residents of each borough on a rolling basis (in Brooklyn by 8/9). By the first week of September, the systems will be installed Citywide. They should be completely functional by January 1, 2011 at the latest.

Once AMR has been installed on a property, the customer will be able go online to register and view their consumption. This new tool will help customers manage their water consumption, including detection of any irregular patterns that could indicate a leek or other problem. Customers may also sign-up for email alerts, and online payments. Customers will receive a 2% credit on each upcoming bill for additionally paying bills online through automated debits.

DEP contractors continue to provide door-to-door installations of the AMR transmitters at no cost and will also be replacing some old water meters. DEP should also be contacted for adjustments to long-standing estimated accounts; the agency will only provide price adjustments for the past 24 months.

Non-payment of water bills over an extended period of time may lead to water liens (with the exception of excluded groups- SCHE, DHE).
Please give our office a call at (212) 788-7081 if you have any further questions. We have much knowledge.

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