The City of Lake Charles Water Business Office was substantially damaged by Hurricane Laura, resulting in the loss of its meter-reading equipment. Replacement equipment arrived after the start of the new year; however, limited staffing with our contracted meter reading company has led to many water bills still being estimated at this time.

 

As the reading of more than 33,000 water meters Citywide has gotten underway, some customers have received higher than normal bills as actual meter readings have taken place. This is likely due to leaks experienced on private lines following Hurricanes Laura and/or Delta. Customers may call (337) 491-1307 to request a leak adjustment.

 

Once the meter is read, if it is determined that a customer was charged for more water than used during the period when the City estimated usage for billing purposes, the account will be credited for the extra usage charges. This will occur automatically, so there is no need to call and request a credit.

 

Similar to the hurricanes, the ice storm caused thousands of water leaks on private lines. Water Billing Personnel will make every effort to catch these higher than normal bills and make leak adjustments before they are sent out to customers. If a customer receives a bill that still seems higher than normal, they should call (337) 491-1408.

 

The City of Lake Charles has not charged late fees since March 2020 when COVID-19-related shut downs began to occur. There is no anticipated end date for this practice at this time.

 

In December 2020 Mayor Nic Hunter introduced a local relief package that was unanimously adopted by the Lake Charles City Council. One component of this package established a Water Bill Relief Fund with Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana for City of Lake Charles Water Division customers. For more information on how to apply for assistance, call (337) 439-7436.

 

For questions regarding a specific account, customers can call (337) 491-1307. The City of Lake Charles Water Billing Office is temporarily located inside the City of Lake Charles Transit Center located at 1155 Ryan Street.