Adding Another Mouth to Feed (or Rather, Hydrate): A Guide to Adding an Account to Your NYC DEP Water Bill
So, you've decided to share your H2O with another human (or maybe a particularly thirsty houseplant)? Congratulations on your impending roommate/green friend! But before you break out the champagne and party hats, let's talk about the less glamorous side of cohabitation: the dreaded water bill.
Why Bother Adding an Account?
You might be thinking, "Hey, I'm the generous soul here, I'll just cover the whole water bill." Well, kudos to you for being such a saint, but let's be real, splitting the cost is probably the more sustainable (and less friendship-testing) option. Plus, it’s just good practice to have everyone’s name on the account. Think of it as building character. Or at least, avoiding future water-related squabbles.
The Great Account Addition Adventure
Now, let's get down to business. How do you actually add this water-guzzling individual to your account? Fear not, dear reader, for I shall guide you through this bureaucratic labyrinth.
Step 1: Gather Your Troops You'll need a few things to start this aquatic expedition:
- Your current water bill
- The new account holder's information (name, address, social security number - yes, we know, fun stuff)
- A pen (or keyboard) and paper (or computer)
Step 2: Contact the DEP This is where the real fun begins. You have a few options:
- Online: If you're a digital nomad, you can try your luck on the NYC DEP website. Be prepared for a rollercoaster of clicks and pop-ups.
- By Phone: If you prefer human interaction (or just hate computers), give the DEP a call. Just be ready to explain your situation to a stranger who probably gets this question a million times a day.
- In Person: If you're feeling adventurous, you can visit a DEP office. But let's be honest, who has time for that?
Step 3: Provide the Necessary Information Once you've made contact, you'll need to provide the DEP with all the juicy details about the new account holder. This includes their name, address, and social security number. It's like a mini-census, but with less pressure.
Step 4: Wait (Patiently or Impatiently, Your Choice) The DEP is a government agency, so be prepared to wait. It might feel like you're waiting for a turtle to cross the road, but eventually, you'll get there.
How to Avoid a Tidal Wave of Water Bills
Here are some quick tips to keep your water bill from becoming a tsunami:
- How to: Check for leaks regularly.
- Quick answer: A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water per day.
- How to: Install water-saving fixtures.
- Quick answer: Low-flow showerheads and toilets can significantly reduce water usage.
- How to: Fix running toilets.
- Quick answer: A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day.
- How to: Be mindful of water usage.
- Quick answer: Shorter showers, turning off the water while brushing your teeth, and only running the dishwasher when full can help.
- How to: Consider a water bill assistance program.
- Quick answer: If you're struggling to pay your water bill, there might be assistance programs available.
And there you have it! You're now a water bill-splitting pro. Remember, patience is key, and don't hesitate to call the DEP if you encounter any choppy waters. Happy hydrating!