Why My Water Bill Is So High

This document, updated September 1, 2022, provides an FAQ from the Ocean City Utility Advisory Commission regarding water and wastewater services and billing by the New Jersey-American Water Company (NJAWC). It clarifies how water rates are determined, detailing components such as fixed service charges, water consumption charges, and the Purchased Water Adjustment Clause (PWAC) surcharge. The FAQ explains the separate line items for Wastewater Service Charge and the Purchased Wastewater Treatment Adjustment Clause (PSTAC) surcharge, which became effective January 1, 2021, and are pass-through costs for collection and treatment. The document outlines the methodologies for calculating these charges, particularly emphasizing that annual wastewater costs are based on the prior year's summer quarter (July, August, September) water usage and are billed equally over 12 months. It also addresses common customer questions, such as why charges apply even when a property is not utilized. For inquiries related to water or wastewater services, customers are advised to contact NJAWC’s Customer Service Center directly.