Utility Bills

What is a utility bill dispute?

A utility bill dispute is a formal complaint about an incorrect, excessive, or unexplained charge on your electricity, gas, water, or waste services bill. In the US, Public Utilities Commissions (PUCs) in each state regulate utility companies and provide a formal dispute resolution process.

Common utility billing disputes

• Estimated meter readings — bills based on estimates rather than actual usage
• Billing errors — incorrect rates, duplicate charges, wrong account billed
• Unexplained usage spikes — sudden increases with no clear cause
• Unauthorized services — charges for services not requested
• Disconnection disputes — improper or illegal service termination
• Deposit disputes — excessive security deposits

Steps to dispute a utility bill

1. Contact your utility company’s customer service first
2. Request a billing review and meter test if needed
3. File a formal written complaint with the utility company
4. If unresolved, escalate to your state Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
5. Keep all records: bills, correspondence, and meter readings

Consumer protections

Most states prohibit utility shutoffs during extreme weather, for certain vulnerable customers, or without proper notice. Your state PUC can order service restoration if a shutoff was improper.