Canceling your American Water service doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Whether you’re moving to a new location or simply no longer require their services, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth cancellation experience. Let’s dive into the details of how to terminate your American Water service efficiently and effectively.
Understanding the Cancellation Process
Before we delve into the specific steps, it’s important to understand that the cancellation process may vary slightly depending on your location. However, the general procedure remains consistent across different regions served by American Water.
Key Points to Remember:
- Provide advance notice
- Gather necessary account information
- Ensure all outstanding bills are paid
- Prepare for potential fees
Step 1: Decide on Your Cancellation Date
The first step in canceling your American Water service is to determine the exact date you want the service to end. It’s crucial to plan this in advance, as American Water typically requires a few days’ notice to process your request.
Recommended Notice Period:
- Provide at least 3-5 business days of notice
- For added security, contact them a week before your desired termination date
Step 2: Gather Necessary Information
Before initiating the cancellation process, make sure you have all the required information at hand. This will streamline the process and prevent any delays.
Information You’ll Need:
- Your American Water account number
- Service address
- Billing address
- Contact telephone number
- Desired date of service termination
- Final billing address (if different from current billing address)
Step 3: Choose Your Cancellation Method
American Water offers multiple ways to request service cancellation. Choose the method that’s most convenient for you.
Option 1: Online Management
- Log into your MyWater account at American Water’s website
- Navigate to the service change request section
- Follow the prompts to request service termination
Option 2: Phone Cancellation
Contact American Water’s customer service:
– New Jersey American Water: 1-800-272-1325 (Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– Pennsylvania American Water: 1-800-565-7292 (Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with 24/7 self-service options)
– For other regions, check the specific customer service number for your area
Step 4: Provide Required Documentation and Information
When canceling your service, especially if you’re a joint account holder or have secondary account holders listed, you may need to provide additional documentation.
Required Information:
- Notification of desired cancellation date
- Service and billing addresses
- Telephone number
- Authorization from all account holders (for joint accounts)
- Final billing address
Step 5: Ensure Meter Access
American Water will need to take a final meter reading to close your account accurately.
Important:
- Provide access to your water meter
- If access isn’t possible, your account may be finalized based on an estimate
Step 6: Settle Outstanding Balances
Before your service can be terminated, ensure that all outstanding bills are paid or arrangements are made to pay them.
Note:
Failure to settle outstanding balances may result in continued responsibility for utility bills at the old address.
Step 7: Understand Potential Fees
Be aware that certain fees may apply when canceling your service, depending on your specific circumstances and region.
Possible Fees:
- Discontinuance fee (e.g., $20 in West Virginia)
- Restoration fee (if service is later restored)
- Administrative fees for field collections
- Late payment penalties
Step 8: Confirm Cancellation
After requesting service termination, it’s crucial to follow up and ensure that your request has been processed.
Follow-up Steps:
- Ask for a confirmation number or email
- Confirm the exact date of service termination
- Request a final bill to be sent to your new address
Conclusion
Canceling your American Water service doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps and being prepared with the necessary information, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free cancellation process. Remember to provide adequate notice, settle any outstanding balances, and keep all confirmation details for your records. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to handle the cancellation of your American Water service with confidence.
