A rate structure where each additional block of water can cost more after usage passes a threshold. Learn where it appears on a water bill, whether it is controllable, and what to check first.
Water bill
$114
All-in rate
$15.83 per 1k gal
Best next check
Leak and irrigation
A rate structure where each additional block of water can cost more after usage passes a threshold.
On a real statement, this may appear as Tier 1, Tier 2, Block rate, Inclining block. Labels vary by city, water district, sewer provider, and billing software.
What to check: A sprinkler schedule or leak can push usage into a higher block and make the final 1,000 gallons much more expensive.
Separate water usage, base charges, sewer, stormwater, and service fees.
Open pageBrowse the full glossary for water, sewer, stormwater, and meter terms.
Open pageA fixed service fee that helps cover account, meter, and utility system costs even when usage is low.
Open pageA wastewater charge that may be based on water use, a winter average, fixture count, or a fixed monthly amount.
Open pageA local charge for drainage and stormwater infrastructure, often unrelated to monthly indoor water use.
Open pageA water billing unit equal to 100 cubic feet, or about 748 gallons.
Open pageA bill based on estimated water usage instead of an actual meter read.
Open pageA minimum monthly water or sewer amount charged even when measured use is very low.
Open pageShort answers for search visitors and bill-checking moments.
A rate structure where each additional block of water can cost more after usage passes a threshold.
Tiered water rate is partly controllable. A sprinkler schedule or leak can push usage into a higher block and make the final 1,000 gallons much more expensive.
Compare gallons or CCF, billing days, sewer charges, fixed charges, and meter readings before deciding what caused the increase.