Disputing a Bill
Seattle Public Utilities has four levels in its dispute resolution process. Read more about our dispute policy (pdf).
Step 1 - Initiate a dispute
When initiating a dispute, please ensure that you answer these three questions:
- Explain what and how much is being disputed.
- State why you are disputing a charge or decision.
- Describe what action you are requesting.
You can dispute a bill by contacting us by any of these methods:
- Online
- By phone
Call an SPU Customer Service Representative at (206) 684-3000 - In person
Visit the Walk In Service Center, on the 27th floor of the Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Avenue, in Downtown Seattle - By mail
Mail your letter to:
Seattle Public Utilities Customer Service Branch
Attention: Customer Response Division
PO Box 34027
Seattle, WA 98124-4027
Step 2 - Request supervisory review
If you are dissatisfied with the response to your initial inquiry, you may request to have your dispute escalated. Please call (206) 684-3000 and ask for a Referral Queue Representative.
Exception: If you are disputing a bill reflecting exceptionally high water usage please review SPU’s Leak Adjustment Director’s Rule (pdf) and visit our website for tips on how to repair any onsite property leaks.
Step 3 - Request managerial review
If you are contesting the findings from Step 2, you may schedule an informal telephone conference with the Customer Response Division’s Duty Supervisor or Backup Duty Supervisor by calling (206) 684-3000.
Exception: High water consumption disputes should be directed to an Account Management Officer by calling (206) 684-5800.
Step 4 - Request hearing officer review
If Steps 1, 2, and 3 have been completed and you still remain dissatisfied, as the last step in the dispute resolution process, you may submit a written appeal to SPU’s Hearing Office. Appeal letters must include the following:
- A summary of the nature of the dispute
- An explanation why the previous findings and managerial decision was unsatisfactory
- Description of the outcome desired
- Appeal letters should be mailed to:
Seattle Public Utilities
Attn: Utility Hearing Officer
PO Box 34027
Seattle, WA 98124-4027