Can I request to have my meter tested?

If you suspect your water meter is inaccurate, you have the right to request testing. The cost depends on whether the meter is found to be faulty.

How to request a meter test:

• Provide one week’s notice to the utility
• Contact utility at (907) 222-4084
• Pay meter test deposit upfront
• You or your representative may be present during testing if requested

Meter test deposits (Section W-027.3):

• 3/4" to 2" meters: $110 deposit
• Meters larger than 2": $180 deposit

Testing standards:

• Meters are tested against American Water Works Association (AWWA) specifications and tolerances
• These are nationally recognized accuracy standards
• Test performed by utility
• You can observe the test if you request it

If meter is OUT OF TOLERANCE (inaccurate):

Good news - utility pays everything:

• Utility pays all testing costs
• Your deposit is refunded within 10 days
• Utility will repair or replace the meter
• Your billing will be adjusted for the period meter was inaccurate:
  • Up to 6 months of adjusted billing, OR
  • If specific date can be determined when meter went bad, back to that date or when you became customer (whichever is later)

If meter is WITHIN TOLERANCE (accurate):

You pay the costs:

• Deposit covers removal, testing, and reinstallation costs
• Within 10 days, you’ll receive:
  • Detailed statement of expenses incurred
  • Invoice if costs exceed deposit
  • Refund if costs less than deposit
• Your billing remains unchanged

Important consumer protection: The utility may NOT charge you for any under-billing unless there’s evidence YOU tampered with the meter. If the meter simply read low without tampering, you don’t owe back charges.

Billing adjustments for inaccurate meters: Adjustments are limited to:

• Maximum 6 months back, OR
• If a specific cause/date can be determined (like physical damage), back to that date or start of your service (whichever is later)

What happens after testing:

• Meter is reinstalled (if within tolerance)
• Meter is replaced (if out of tolerance)
• You receive test results in writing
• Billing adjustments processed if applicable

Tariff Reference: Section W-024-E, Section W-027.3, Section W-007-B