The Quest for the Elusive Water Bill: A Detroit Resident's Guide (Without Getting Soaked)
Let's face it, Detroiters, nobody enjoys staring at a water bill. But between keeping that shower pressure on point and avoiding a shutoff situation that would rival the ending of "Cast Away" (Tom Hanks would not be happy), it's a necessary evil. So, how do you find this mythical document, the bearer of water-related charges and, more importantly, your due date?
Fear not, fellow citizens! This guide will have you navigating the Detroit water bill waters like a pro (or at least someone who can avoid a late fee).
How Can I View My Detroit Water Bill |
There's an App for That (Literally)
In this age of smartphones and instant gratification, there's an app for everything, and yes, that includes your Detroit water bill. The aptly named Detroit Water app (available on both iOS and Android) lets you view your current bill, past billing history, and even track your water usage. Think of it like a Fitbit for your H2O consumption!
Bonus: The app also works with Amazon Alexa. So you can be chilling on the couch, and with a simple, "Alexa, how much do I owe Detroit Water?" you'll have your answer. Just don't blame us if your significant other gives you a side-eye for talking to your appliances.
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Embrace the Digital Age: The Customer Portal
For those who prefer the comfort of a computer screen, the City of Detroit has a Customer Portal (
Pro Tip: If you haven't already, register for an account on the Customer Portal. It'll save you time and a whole lot of digging through paper in the future (and you'll be thanking yourself when you need to make a quick payment).
Still Rocking the Paper Trail? We Got You Covered
For those who enjoy the tactile sensation of a physical bill (or maybe your printer decided to go on strike), you can still access your water bill the old-fashioned way. Just wait for it to arrive in the mail – clearly a test of patience, but hey, some things never change, right?
Tip: Watch for summary phrases — they give the gist.
Side Note: If you haven't received your bill in a while, it might be a good idea to contact the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) to make sure your address is up to date. Nobody wants a surprise shutoff because a bill got lost in the mail.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to register for an account on the Customer Portal?
Head over to the City of Detroit's website (
Tip: Use the structure of the text to guide you.
How to download the Detroit Water App?
Search for "Detroit Water" in the App Store or Google Play. It's free and will become your new best friend (when it comes to water bills, at least).
How to make a payment on my water bill?
QuickTip: Ask yourself what the author is trying to say.
You can make a payment through the Customer Portal, the Detroit Water app, by phone, or by mail. Check the City of Detroit website (
How to dispute a charge on my water bill?
If you think there's an error on your bill, contact the DWSD customer service department at 313-267-8000. They'll be happy to help you sort it out.
How to avoid a late fee?
The best way to avoid a late fee is to set up auto-pay on the Customer Portal or through the Detroit Water app. That way, you'll never have to worry about forgetting the due date (and trust us, your future self will thank you).