HOUSTON — The city of Houston will resume water service shutoffs Sept. 8 for about 15,000 customers who owe more than $500 and have unpaid balances for at least 90 days, Mayor John Whitmire announced Thursday.
The shutoffs will affect customers with Sensus water meters, which the city believes do not have the inflated-reading problems that prompted a two-year moratorium on shutoffs in 2024.
The affected customers collectively owe about $30 million, according to Whitmire.
“This effort is about maintaining a fair and sustainable utility system and, just as importantly, being fair to the Houstonians who pay their bills on time,” Whitmire said in a statement.
Customers with overdue balances will receive notices and an opportunity to resolve their accounts before the city disconnects their service, Whitmire said.
The city imposed the moratorium after a KPRC 2 investigation highlighted problems with inflated water bills. Whitmire then accelerated efforts to replace faulty meters.
Houston Public Works offers payment plans for customers with outstanding balances. Residents can contact the department’s customer service line at 713-371-1400 to discuss payment options.
The city also offers limited financial assistance through its W.A.T.E.R. Fund, which provides up to $100 in relief every six months for eligible customers.
Eligibility includes certain low-income residents age 59 and older who live in single-family homes, residents with disabilities and other low-income households that meet federal poverty guidelines.
BakerRipley also provides utility assistance, although its application portal closed July 13 after receiving about 3,000 requests. The nonprofit plans to reopen applications Sept. 14 for households earning no more than 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Residents seeking assistance can also call 2-1-1 or visit 211texas.org for information about available programs.
Other organizations that may offer limited help with Houston water bills include Braes Interfaith Ministries, Pearland Neighborhood Center and Society of St. Stephen.
Meanwhile, Houston Water customers who receive city garbage and recycling services will see a new $5 administrative fee on their August bills. The fee will remain at $5 for at least two years before the city can increase it to as much as $25 per month.
The City Council approved the garbage-related fee this summer. Customers who qualify for the W.A.T.E.R. Fund can also receive assistance for the new fee.