Frequently Asked Questions Q: How often are the meters read? A: Residential accounts are read every 60 days. Commercial accounts are read every 30 days. Q: I just purchased a new meter. How long does it take to have the meter installed? A: It takes approximately two weeks after all permits have been obtained.      Types of permits are DOT, Fulton and City of Atlanta street permits. Q: Why is my bill higher than normal? A: Leaks are the cause of most unusually high bills; they are meter leaks or property leaks.      The second reason why a customer will have an increase is due to the new rates. Q: My water is shut off and I can’t pay my bill. What can I do to have service restored? A: The City of Atlanta allows you 12 months to pay on a payment plan. See policy to establish partial      payment plan. If you need assistance you may visit Care & Conserve program. Q: How can I receive an adjustment on my bill? A: When the customer makes all the repairs and submits the appropriate documentation, the adjustment      is processed immediately. When Bureau of Drinking Water makes the repairs, the adjustment is processed      without a request from the customer.