Name: Greenville Water
Price range: $

Rate Change FAQ

How much are the rates changing?

Our ‘inside the city limits’ rates are changing from a $4.52 base fee and $1.47 per 1,000 gallons to $5.20 base and $1.68 per 1,000 gallons.

Our ‘outside the city limits’ rates are changing from a $6.78 base fee and $2.22 per 1,000 gallons to $7.46 base and $2.43 per 1,000 gallons.

The rate change will have a $1.31 per month impact on a household that uses 3,000 gallons.

How much can I expect my water bill to change?

Since the rate change is affecting both base fees and volume charges, the relative change will depend on your water usage. For example, if you use 3,000 gallons, the change will total $1.31.

Please note these changes do not include partner entities' fees reflected in your monthly water bill total.

When will the rate change go into effect?

The rate change will take effect as of January 1, 2024, and be reflected on your February bill statement.

Why are water rates changing?

Unlike many water utilities that have annual rate changes, the last rate change for Greenville Water was in 2016. There are many reasons that require a rate change, including:

To make infrastructure investments to perform maintenance, rehabilitation and replacement of infrastructure, all to improve the long-term viability of our water distribution system.
Keep pace with growth and ensure that the supply can meet the drinking water and fire protection demands of our growing service area.
To keep up with rising operational and maintenance costs due to inflation.

Are there any plans to help low-income customers affected by rate changes?

We recognize that changed rates can cause financial difficulty for some customers. There is a list of available agencies at greenvillewater.com, listed as “Financial Assistance,” and upon application and successful qualification, you may be eligible for financial assistance with your water and other bills.

How can customers get assistance or information about managing their water bills?

On our website are suggestions on how to save water, which could help lower your bills. Our Customer Service Department is also available to answer such questions and may be able to offer a payment arrangement if you are struggling with your current balance.

Is water quality at risk due to inflation?

No. Greenville Water considers water quality a top priority and will take all necessary measures to ensure the water quality remains up to standards put in place by the City of Greenville, SC DHEC, and the EPA.

Can customers expect improved reliability or service because of rate changes?

Greenville Water is always making changes or additions within the company and its operations to ensure customers receive the best service and have the best resources available. This will include improved customer service and billing options through our online portal, improved infrastructure within our distribution system, and continued quality of service, all while keeping service levels high in an ever-growing population.

Has Greenville Water explored alternative means of funding sources or financing options to avoid rate changes?

Greenville Water takes pride in doing all it can to address changes in costs in a way that does not reflect on customer’s bills. The last rate change was in 2016, while many other water and sewer service providers in the industry prepare their customers for annual changes to their rates.

Do developers help fund the cost of expanding water facilities?

Many new developments require new water infrastructure, such as new water mains and fire hydrants. As the developer installs the infrastructure, the developer installs the necessary water facilities to Greenville Water specifications and under our inspection. Upon completion, the developer donates the newly installed infrastructure to Greenville Water at no cost to our ratepayers. Additionally, Greenville Water collects capacity fees with every new service connection, such as a home and business, to our water system to help fund the construction or expansion of our facilities, such as treatment plants and major water infrastructure. The collection of capacity fees takes the burden off our existing customers to fund these major system improvements and keep our rates low and affordable.

Why do I have a base fee AND a volume charge for water?

Greenville Water base fees are established on the basis of recovering some of the fixed cost associated with providing the service, while volume charges are based entirely on active use of water as measured by the meter at your property.

Why am I being billed if I am not using any water?

If you have an active account with Greenville Water, there are several fixed costs involved in maintaining the service. Since water is available for use, meter readings are taken monthly, and bill statements are generated to communicate usage and other important information. There are also fixed costs to maintain the distribution system that is readily supplying water to your property and ensure our teams are available to you for any questions or assistance.

Why was I billed for a base fee for less than a full month?

Our base fees are not prorated. However, special rules apply for starting services, and we will attempt to avoid billing for periods less than 7 days and instead bill for these days on the next bill statement generated.