DC Water must post shutoff notices at least 30 working days ahead

DC Water’s general manager must post shutoff notices outside the property and, where practical and publicly accessible, at each unit. The notices are for occupants, whether they rent or own their units. Notices must use English, Spanish, or another language DC Water reasonably believes occupants may speak. They must show the unpaid amount and how long the bill has been overdue. Notice must be posted at least 30 working days before service ends.

DC Water may add late charges and penalties to overdue bills. The rule covers unpaid DC Water charges and bills. A charge may be up to 10% when a bill remains unpaid for more than 30 days. A 1% monthly penalty that grows on past penalties may apply when a bill remains unpaid for more than 60 days. The act applies this fee section as of April 18, 1996.

The act lists DC Water as covered by the District’s language access law. The provision names DC Water as an entity with major public contact. The emergency act expires August 27, 2026.

DC Water must send monthly property counts to the Council, Attorney General, People’s Counsel, and Tenant Advocate. The counts cover shutoff notices and service outcomes, payment plans or tenant groups taking over bill payments, and properties placed in receivership. Reports are due on the seventh day of each month and cover the previous month.