Leak Adjustments

We understand that unexpected water leaks can result in unusually high bills. The Water Business Office offers leak adjustments in certain circumstances to help reduce the financial burden for qualifying repairs. Please read the information below carefully before submitting a request.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for a leak adjustment:

  • The leak must be repaired before submitting a request.
  • The request must be submitted within 60 days of the repair.
  • Documentation of the repair is required.

Types of Repairs That May Qualify

Adjustments are typically provided for leaks that require an actual repair to correct. Examples include:

  • Underground pipe leaks
  • Broken or cracked service lines
  • Leaking toilets with replacement parts
  • Leaks repaired by a licensed plumber

Self-Repairs

If the repair was completed by the homeowner or tenant:

  • Provide a detailed explanation of the issue
  • Provide receipts for parts or materials used

Note: Some repairs (like those involving main water lines or work requiring permits) must be performed by a licensed plumber to be eligible for adjustment.

What Does Not Qualify

  • We do not offer leak adjustments for:
  • Garden hoses left running or unattended
  • Irrigation or sprinkler system overuse
  • Normal seasonal increases in water use
  • Leaks that were not repaired
  • Incomplete or undocumented repairs

How Leak Adjustments Are Calculated

Each request is reviewed individually. Adjustments are based on:

  • Historical usage for your account
  • The extent and duration of the leak
  • The billing period(s) impacted

 Approved adjustments will reduce the amount you owe. You will not see a separate credit line on your bill.

How to Submit a Request

  1. Download or complete our Leak Adjustment Request Form online - Leak Adjustment Form
  2. Attach supporting documentation (photos, invoices, receipts, plumber's statement)
  3. Submit by:
      • Email: wbo.c2g@accgov.com
      • Fax: 706-613-3761
      • Mail or in-person: 124 E. Hancock Ave., Athens, GA 30601

Forms submitted without supporting documentation will be denied.

FAQs

Why is my leak adjustment taking longer than expected? 

During a leadership transition, the current team inherited a backlog of pending leak adjustment requests. A review of the process was conducted to ensure consistency and compliance. That review has now concluded, and processing has resumed. 

Are leak adjustments being processed now? 

Yes. Leak adjustments are currently being reviewed and processed in the order they were received. 

Will I be charged penalties while I wait? 

Accounts with pending leak adjustments are noted in the system. If the current balance is paid on time, any penalties incurred during review are credited. 

Will my water be disconnected? 

Water service will only be subject to disconnection if the current balance is not paid. A pending leak adjustment alone will not result in disconnection.

Questions?

Contact the Water Business Office at 706-613-3500 or wbo.c2g@accgov.com if you need assistance