Should tenants apply to become a direct customer of Pittsburgh Water?
Here are the facts to help you make an informed decision.
Please note that this fact sheet applies to tenants in rental properties who are within the Pittsburgh Water territory and served by a dedicated service line that serves only the unit or property in which you are residing. To determine whether you have a dedicated service line, please call Pittsburgh Water Dispatch at 412-255-2423 and choose Option #1.
FAQ: Becoming a Pittsburgh Water Customer as a Tenant
Why become a customer?
Tenants who register as Pittsburgh Water customers gain direct access to important services and protections. This includes receiving monthly bills, service updates, and managing alerts through the Customer Advantage Portal.
What are the benefits of being a customer?
Customers enjoy access to valuable assistance programs, interest-free, income-based payment plans, eligibility to file complaints through the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, and greater control over water service and billing.
Which protections would no longer be available to me?
You will no longer be protected from service termination if your landlord fails to pay. You will be responsible for charges going forward from the date of your application.
How can I get more information?
Visit www.pgh2o.com or contact Customer Service at 412-255-2423 and choose option #5 for personalized support.
| Advantages of Tenant Becoming a Customer | Disadvantages of Tenant Becoming a Customer |
| You may be eligible for a discounted bill and other benefits through Pittsburgh Water’s Customer Assistance Programs (Bill Discount Program*, Arrearage Forgiveness, Hardship Grant, Winter Moratorium, Line Repair and Water Conservation Program) as well as ALCOSAN’s Clean Water Assistance Fund Grant. | If you are a customer, you will be responsible for paying your own bill directly to Pittsburgh Water and your service may be terminated for nonpayment. |
| Access to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s customer complaint process | If you become a customer, unpaid charges from your application date will be your responsibility and must be paid in full along with your current charges as billed or paid over time in an approved payment plan. You will have the right to a reasonable payment plan. |
| Access to the Customer Advantage Portal to set free notifications for bill and leak alerts via email and text messaging | |
| Receive a monthly bill via mail or paperless eBill, including helpful, service-related information as well the ability to enroll in autopay | |
| Access to interest-free, income-based payment arrangements |
Bill Discount Program
* If you qualify as a customer with household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, enrolling in the Bill Discount Program may significantly reduce your monthly water and/or wastewater bills. Actual bills will vary based on the household usage, income level, and available discounts for specific income levels and usage. Below are sample Pittsburgh Water bills with and without the Bill Discount Program applied.
