“Pay For It Or Lose It”…NWC Warns Massive Disconnection Drive Now In Effect

The National Water Commission (NWC) is now enforcing a massive and widespread disconnection drive to collect outstanding payments from customers who have arrears with the utility company.

Earlier this year, the NWC had made offers to delinquent customers to settle their arrears under the COVID Assistance Programme (CAP). Under this arrangement, residential customers were offered a thirty percent (30%) discount to settle their debt. The CAP for residential customers was extended after it was running for three months. Additionally, commercial customers were also offered a twenty-five percent (25%) discount to settle outstanding payments. As a responsible utility that is sensitive to the needs of our valued customers, the NWC had also taken the decision not to disconnect water supply during the initial period of the outbreak of the COVID- 19 pandemic.

However, prudent business practices now dictate that the NWC ensures that delinquent customers who refuse to settle their debt come forward and honour their obligations. The company has noted that based on its records, some customers are abusive of their arrangements, in that they rack up huge bills, use excessive water, and refuse to engage our commercial department to work out a payment plan. Such situations must now be urgently addressed if the entity is to remain viable and provide a product and services that are crucial to the livelihood of the Jamaican people.

Meanwhile, the NWC is urging customers that non-payment of their bills could affect their credit ratings. As of December 1, 2020, the company is empowered by law to provide credit information on its customers if such information is requested by business entities.

Customers are reminded to monitor their consumption patterns especially during the Christmas period and not to waste water. Our valued customers are further reminded to constantly check for leaks as these are sometimes the major cause of exorbitant bills.