Utility Bills
Dispute overcharges on electricity, gas, water, and waste utility bills across all US states. Free complaint letter templates and Public Utilities Commission listings.
Create your utility bills dispute letter
Fill in your details and download a ready-to-send petition for .
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
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.
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
Utility Bills in Maryland
Unexpectedly high or inaccurate utility bills can be a source of significant stress for residents and businesses in Maryland. Common issues include billing errors, service disconnections, estimated readings, or disputes over energy consumption. Understanding your rights and the regulations governing utility services in Maryland is crucial. State laws and regulatory bodies are in place to protect consumers and provide clear processes for resolving billing disputes.
Maryland’s utility services are primarily regulated under the Maryland Public Utilities Code. For instance, Maryland Public Utilities Code § 7-309 (2025) addresses requirements for utility service providers regarding deposits and past due balances. Additionally, COMAR 20.25.01.05 outlines regulations concerning utility bills, bill forms, and payment procedures. Recent legislative actions, such as the Utility RELIEF Act, enacted in April 2026, temporarily suspend forecast-based rate increases until April 2027, providing some relief to Maryland consumers. These laws aim to ensure fair and transparent utility billing practices across Maryland.
If you have a dispute regarding your utility bills in Maryland, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is the primary regulatory body. Their Consumer Affairs Division (CAD) offers free dispute resolution and mediation services. You can contact the PSC/CAD at 410-767-8000 or toll-free at 1-800-492-0474. They also provide an online complaint form at [mdpsc.my.site.com/complaints/s/](https://mdpsc.my.site.com/complaints/s/). For broader consumer protection issues, the Attorney General of Maryland’s Consumer Protection Division can also provide assistance through their online portal at [oag.maryland.gov/i-need-to/Pages/business-complaints.aspx](https://oag.maryland.gov/i-need-to/Pages/business-complaints.aspx).
To effectively dispute a utility bill in Maryland, follow a four-step process: first, gather all relevant documentation, including past bills, meter readings, and any correspondence with your utility provider; second, contact your utility company directly to explain the issue and request a review of your bill; third, if the issue remains unresolved, file a formal complaint with the Maryland Public Service Commission’s Consumer Affairs Division; and fourth, if necessary, seek further assistance from the Attorney General’s office. Most disputes are resolved within 30 to 60 days. Use the petition generator above to create a bill dispute letter in under two minutes.