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Billing

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1. Why are Hi-Desert Water District’s rates different than those of neighboring water agencies?

Every agency has different rates based on numerous factors such as water source, number of customers, treatment needs and capital improvement projects. Hi-Desert Water District imports supplemental water from the State Water Project, an additional cost included in our rates that will differ from an agency that relies entirely on local water pumped from the ground.

2. What is the money we pay on our monthly water bill used for?

The revenue is used to pay for expenses directly related to providing water to your home or business. Costs include electricity for pumping, purchased water, meter reading, and administrative expenses, treatment, maintenance and replacement of pumps and pipes. As a government agency, the Hi-Desert Water District cannot earn a profit from the services it provides and must charge no more than the actual costs associated with providing services to its customers.

3. Can I make a payment directly to field employees at the time they are locking off my service?

Employees in the field do not have computers to access customer information and do not carry money for such transactions. Payments may be made at the District office, where the Customer Service Department uses computers to post payments on customer accounts and generate receipts.

4. What is the Service Charge?

Monies collected from the Service Charge on your water bill cover the day-to-day expenses such as meter reading, water quality testing, emergency repair, and payment processing.

5. Why is my water bill the same as the last month?

Every charge on your water bill remains the same each month except the water rate, which varies with the amount of water you use. The water you use is measured in 100 cubic feet or HCF (1 HCF equals 748 gallons). Customers are only charged for a full unit, so if you use an additional 99 cubic feet compared to the previous month, your water bill will remain the same.

6. Why is my neighbor’s water bill lower than mine?

Every residential customer pays the same rate for water; however, the Water Charge on a bill varies according to water usage. The District uses Conservation-Based Rates, which increase as more water is used. The customer who uses more pays more.

7. Can I make payment arrangements for my water bill?

Yes. Customers with financial difficulties or who receive a large water bill resulting from a water leak may establish an interest-free payment plan with the District. Terms are on a case-by-case basis; all payment arrangements must be in writing and signed by the customer.

8. Can my water bill be mailed to coincide with my paydays?

The date of the water bill is determined by the date the water meters are read. Meter readings are grouped together by the physical location of water meters and meter reading routes. When the water bills are grouped together, the District saves money in postage because of the bulk rate discount.

9. What happens if my check is returned for insufficient funds?

When the District receives a returned check, staff time is used in an attempt to collect those funds by making contact with the customer. The returned check charge of $25 is used to offset a portion of that expense. The bank also charges the District for all returned checks.

10. Can I set up automatic deductions for paying my water bill?

Yes, an automatic payment deduction can be set up for checking accounts or bank cards. If you are interested in setting up automatic payments, simply register your account, verify your email address and set up AutoPay.

11. Can I use a credit card for payment?

Yes, the District accepts credit card payments in the lobby or online. An automated credit card payment option is also available by phone.

12. What happens if I’m late paying my bill?

The District charges a late fee of 10% of the balance for the first 30 days (minimum $10). The fee covers the cost of labor for mailing reminder notices.

13. How can I lower my water bill?

The best way to lower your water bill is to reduce your water usage. It is important to fix all leaks immediately. If you suspect you have a leak or your water bill is unusually high, contact the District for a free water audit. A field representative will visit your property and help check for leaks and provide other conservation tips. For more information call customer service at 760-365-8333.

14. Can I set up automatic deductions for paying my water bill?

Yes, an automatic payment deduction can be set up for checking accounts. If you are interested in setting up automatic payments simply complete the Auto-Pay application online. Learn more about your bill and payment options.

15. Can I use a credit card for payment?

Yes, the District can take a credit card payment in the lobby or online. An automated credit card payment option is also available by phone.

16. Why is the delinquency charge so much?

The delinquency charge covers the cost of labor for mailing reminder notices and delivering door hangers to delinquent customers. The late charge encourages customers to pay their water bills on time.

17. How can I lower my water bill?

The best way to lower your water bill is to reduce your water usage. The water rates are based on water usage. The more you use, the more you pay. It is very important to fix all leaks immediately. If you suspect you have a leak or you have an unusually high water bill, contact the District for a free water audit. 

A field representative will visit your property and help check for leaks and provide other water-conserving tips. For more information call customer service at 760-365-8333.