Where to send your Charleston water payment
Charleston Water System handles water and sewer billing for the city. You can pay your bill through their website, by phone, by mail, or in person at their office. Each method has different timing, so choose based on when your payment is due.
The fastest way is online at charlestonwater.com. You can set up a one-time payment or enroll in autopay. Phone payments go through their customer service line at 843-727-6800. If you prefer to mail a check, send it to Charleston Water System, P.O. Box 989, Charleston, SC 29402. Include your account number on the check.
In-person payments are accepted at their office at 27 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401, during business hours. Bring your bill or account number. Some payment locations may accept cash or card; confirm what forms they take before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Charleston Water System bills water and sewer together, and you can pay online at charlestonwater.com, by phone at 843-727-6800, by mail, or in person at 27 Calhoun Street.
- Online and phone payments typically post within one business day, while mailed checks take five to seven business days depending on mail delivery.
- Autopay through the Charleston Water System website removes the need to remember due dates and can help you avoid late fees.
- Your account number appears on your bill and is required for phone and mail payments to ensure the payment reaches the correct account.
- Late payments trigger a penalty fee and may result in service disconnection if unpaid for 30 days or more.
How to find your account number and due date
Your account number and due date are printed on the front of your water bill, usually in the upper right corner. The account number is a string of digits unique to your property address. The due date tells you when payment must arrive at Charleston Water System to avoid a late fee.
If you cannot locate your bill, call Charleston Water System at 843-727-6800 and provide your street address. A representative can look up your account number and current balance over the phone. You can also create an online account at charlestonwater.com to view your bill history and due dates anytime.
Setting up autopay to avoid missed payments
Autopay withdraws your water bill payment automatically on or shortly before the due date each month. This removes the risk of forgetting to pay and incurring a late fee. To enroll, log into your account at charlestonwater.com, go to the billing section, and select the autopay option. You will need a valid bank account or debit card.
You can change or cancel autopay anytime through your online account. If your bill amount varies significantly month to month, review your autopay amount before each cycle to make sure it covers the full balance. If autopay fails due to insufficient funds or an expired card, Charleston Water System will send you a notice, and you will need to pay manually to avoid disconnection.
What happens if your payment is late
Charleston Water System charges a late fee if your payment does not arrive by the due date shown on your bill. The fee is added to your next bill. If your account remains unpaid for 30 days or more past the due date, the system may disconnect your water service without further notice.
If you cannot pay by the due date, contact Charleston Water System immediately at 843-727-6800. Some customers may be able to set up a payment plan or discuss hardship options. The sooner you reach out, the more options may be available to you. Waiting until disconnection is imminent leaves fewer choices.
Understanding your bill and what you are paying for
Your Charleston water bill covers two services: water supply and sewer. The bill shows separate charges for each. Water charges are based on how many gallons you used that month, measured by a meter at your property. Sewer charges are typically a percentage of your water use, since most water that enters your home leaves through the sewer system.
Your bill also lists any taxes, fees, or adjustments. If you see a charge you do not recognize, call 843-727-6800 to ask what it covers. Meter reading errors or billing mistakes do happen, and Charleston Water System can review your account history to investigate.
Payment options if you are facing hardship
If you are struggling to pay your water bill, contact Charleston Water System directly at 843-727-6800 before your account falls behind. Explain your situation and ask about payment plans or hardship programs. Some utilities offer extended payment schedules that spread your bill over several months, reducing the monthly amount due.
You may also contact the City of Charleston's Department of Human Services to ask about emergency utility assistance programs. These programs vary in availability and funding, so call ahead to learn what is currently available. Having your account number and recent bill handy when you call will speed up the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my online payment to show up on my account?
Online payments through charlestonwater.com typically post within one business day. If you pay after 5 p.m. or on a weekend, it may not process until the next business day. Always pay several days before your due date to account for processing time and avoid a late fee.
Can I pay my water bill with a credit card?
Charleston Water System accepts debit cards and bank account transfers online. Credit card payments may incur a processing fee. Call 843-727-6800 to ask about credit card payment options and any associated costs before you pay that way.
What if I move out of Charleston but still receive a bill?
Contact Charleston Water System at 843-727-6800 to request a final meter reading and close your account. Provide your move-out date and forwarding address. You will receive a final bill for any remaining balance. If you overpaid, the system will issue a refund to the address you provide.
Is there a way to lower my water bill?
Your water bill is based on actual usage measured by your meter. To lower it, reduce water consumption by fixing leaks, installing low-flow fixtures, and using water efficiently. If you suspect a meter malfunction or leak, call 843-727-6800 to request an inspection. A leak on the property side of the meter is your responsibility to repair.
Can I set up autopay for a partial amount instead of the full bill?
Most autopay systems require you to pay the full bill amount. If you want to pay a partial amount, you will need to make manual payments instead. Contact Charleston Water System at 843-727-6800 to discuss payment plan options if you cannot afford the full monthly bill.