Every person and business in Northport, AL needs to pay their water bill every month. There are a few things you should know before you pay your Northport water bill, even though it may seem like a simple task. In this detailed guide, we will go over everything you need to know to pay your Northport water bill easily and without any problems.
Overview of Northport Water Billing
The City of Northport provides water service to residents and charges for this service through monthly water bills. Here are some key things to know about Northport water billing:
- Bills are issued monthly and are based on your water usage.
- The due date is usually 21 days after the bill is issued.
- You will receive a late fee if your bill is not paid by the due date.
- If your bill remains unpaid, your water service may be disconnected.
- Even if your service is disconnected, you still owe the unpaid balance.
Northport Water Rates and Fees
As of October 2022 here are the current Northport water rates
- Base facility charge: $38.08 per month
- Water usage charges: Six-tiered conservation rate structure
- $2.75 per 1,000 gallons for first 4,000 gallons
- $5.50 per 1,000 gallons for next 6,000 gallons
- $8.25 per 1,000 gallons for next 10,000 gallons
- $11.00 per 1,000 gallons for next 15,000 gallons
- $13.75 per 1,000 gallons for next 25,000 gallons
- $16.50 per 1,000 gallons over 60,000 gallons
So the more water you use, the higher rate you pay per 1,000 gallons.
Northport also charges the following fees:
- Late payment fee: 10% of past due balance
- Disconnection fee: $30
- Reconnection fee: $30
- Returned payment fee: $25
Carefully look over your monthly bill to make sure there are no mistakes and that you fully understand all the fees.
Ways to Pay Your Northport Water Bill
Northport offers several convenient payment options:
Pay Online
Online payment through Northport is the best and easiest way to pay. You can use a credit or debit card or a checking account to make one-time payments or set up recurring payments. You only need your account number from your water bill to use the online system.
Pay by Phone
Call the automated payment line at (205) 333-3005 and follow the prompts to pay by credit/debit card or electronic check. You will need your account number.
Pay by Mail
Mail your payment to:
Northport Water Department
P.O. Box 569
Northport, AL 35476
There should be a payment stub or your account number written on the check. Allow 7-10 days for delivery.
Pay in Person
You can pay in person at Northport City Hall:
Address: 3500 McFarland Blvd, Northport, AL 35476
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8AM–5PM
Cash, check, credit/debit cards accepted.
Pay atAuthorized Payment Center
Northport allows water bill payment at authorized retail outlets like Winn-Dixie. There may be a small processing fee.
Pay via Bank Bill Pay
You can use your bank’s online bill pay service. Make sure your bank has the correct payment address for Northport and allow enough time for the check to arrive.
Tips for Paying Your Northport Water Bill
Follow these tips to make sure your Northport water payments are on time and avoid any late fees or service disruptions:
- Mark your calendar with the due date each month. Set up email or text alerts for your bills.
- Sign up for auto-pay or recurring payments so your bill gets paid automatically each month.
- If funds are tight, call Northport before the due date and request an extension or payment plan.
- If you’re leaving town, make arrangements to have bills paid while you’re away.
- Notify Northport anytime your contact information like address or phone number changes.
- If you notice an unusually high bill, contact Northport immediately to check for errors or leaks.
Paying your water bill doesn’t have to be a chore. Hopefully this guide provides all the key details on how to pay your Northport water bill correctly and on time through the various payment options available. Reach out to Northport Utility Billing at (205) 333-3005 if you have any other questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paying Northport Water Bills
How can I check the balance on my water account?
You can check your account balance online, by phone through the automated system, or by calling Northport Utility Billing.
What if I’m unable to pay my water bill by the due date?
Contact Northport as soon as possible before the due date to discuss payment plan options and avoid disconnection of service.
What forms of payment does Northport accept?
Northport accepts cash, check, money order, debit/credit card, and electronic bank draft payments.
Is there a fee to pay my water bill online or by phone?
Northport does not charge a fee for online or phone payments. Your bank may have a fee for electronic payments from your account.
Can I get a paperless billing and receive my bill by email?
Yes, Northport offers paperless e-billing. You can enroll through their online payment portal.
What happens if I pay my water bill late?
Northport charges a 10% late fee on unpaid balances. If your bill remains unpaid, your water service may be disconnected.
How do I start or stop water service in Northport?
Contact Northport Utility Billing to start or stop service. Provide 2 business days’ notice. A fee may apply to turn water on or off.
I’m moving. Can I get a final bill to settle my Northport water account?
Yes, request a final read and closing bill from Northport Utility Billing when you know your move date. This final bill will close out your account.
My water usage seems really high. What should I do?
If your usage spikes, contact Northport immediately to check for leaks or meter issues. You may need to verify the read or have your meter tested.
What if I’m struggling to pay my bill because of a financial hardship?
Contact Northport’s Utility Billing department to ask about possible financial assistance programs or extended payment plan options.
Paying your water services on time is a responsibility for all Northport residents. Follow this guide to understand the billing process, know the rates and fees, and utilize the many payment options available. Contact Northport Utility Billing with any other questions about your water account.
Lower Your Monthly Bill
By lowering your water usage and conserving water where possible, you can significantly reduce your utility bill.
- Check your toilet for leaks.
- Stop using your toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket.
- Take shorter showers.
- Install water-saving shower heads or flow restrictors.
- Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
- Turn off the water while shaving.
- Check faucets and pipes for leaks.
- Plant drought-resistant trees and plants.
- Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants.
Water and/or Sewer Monthly Rates
- Readiness to serve charge for both water and sewer
- Covers the fixed costs of running our utility system, even before you use any water or make any sewage. This includes keeping the water and sewer lines in good shape and paying the people who run and maintain the system.
- You will still have to pay a monthly base facility charge even if you turn off your water and leave the area in the summer or for a long time.
- Water Usage & Sewer Usage
- Based on six levels of conservation rates, the rate for the water you use will go up the more water you use.
If we don’t get your monthly payment on time or if you need any other services that cost money, those fees will automatically be added to your monthly bill.
For information on frequently asked billing questions, visit our Common Questions page.
| Timeframe | Water | Wastewater | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prior to October 1, 2024 | $34.78 | $57.47 | $92.25 |
| Current Rates as of October 1, 2024 | $38.08 | $66.08 | $104.16 |
| Difference per Month | $3.30 | $8.61 | $11.91 |
