Hey there, Roswell residents! Are you scratching your head trying to figure out how to pay your water bill in our beautiful New Mexico city? Trust me, I’ve been there too. When I first moved to Roswell, navigating the water billing system felt like learning a new language. But don’t worry – I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to make paying your water bill in Roswell as painless as possible.
Whether you’re dealing with the City of Roswell Utilities Department or the Berrendo Co-Op Water Users Association, I’ve got you covered with all the payment options available to keep your water flowing!
Understanding Water Service Providers in Roswell
Before we dive into payment methods it’s important to know who provides your water service. Roswell has two main water service providers
- City of Roswell Utilities Department – Serves most of Roswell with approximately 18,000 households
- Berrendo Co-Op Water Users Association – Serves specific areas in and around Roswell
The payment methods and policies differ between these providers, so knowing which one sends your bill is the first step!
City of Roswell Water Bill Payment Options
The City of Roswell offers several convenient ways to pay your water bill
1. Online Payment
The City recently updated their online payment system to make it easier for customers to use.
- Visit roswellnmcitizens.munisselfservice.com to make payments
- New users will need to create an account (even if you used the old system)
- The system accepts credit and debit cards
- You can set up one-time or recurring payments
Important Note: If you were using the previous online system, you’ll need to set up a new account on the updated platform. The old system is no longer available.
2. Phone Payments
For those who prefer talking to a real person or using automated phone systems:
- Call (575) 624-6711 to make a payment
- Have your account information ready
- Credit/debit cards are accepted
3. In-Person Payments
If you’re old-school like me and prefer paying in person:
- Visit the Utility Billing Office at 415 N. Richardson Ave.
- Office hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- They accept cash, check, credit/debit cards, and money orders
4. Drop Box
In a hurry or need to pay after hours?
- Use the payment drop box located on North Richardson Avenue
- The drop box is across from the Utility Billing Office
- Place your payment in an envelope with your account information
5. Mail
You can also mail your payment:
- Send to: P.O. Box 1838, Roswell, NM 88202
- Include your payment stub with your check or money order
- Allow sufficient time for delivery and processing
Berrendo Co-Op Water Users Association Payment Options
If you’re served by the Berrendo Co-Op Water Users Association, you have these payment options:
1. Online Payment
Berrendo Water Co-Op now accepts online payments:
- Click the green “Pay Your Bill Now” button on their website
- You’ll need to know your account number and the current amount due
- They accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express)
- There is a 4% fee for credit/debit card payments
- E-Check payments are also available
- Secure SSL encryption protects your personal information
2. In-Person Payment
You can pay your bill in person at:
- Berrendo Water Co-Op, 2004 East 19th St., Roswell, NM 88201
- They accept cash, check, or money orders
3. Payment Drop-off
Can’t make it during business hours?
- Use the night drop in the window facing north at their office
4. Mail
To pay by mail:
- Send your check or money order with payment coupon to:
- Berrendo Water Co-Op, 2004 East 19th St., Roswell, NM 88201
5. Bank Online Bill Pay
Many banks offer online bill payment services:
- Set up the Berrendo Water Co-Op as a payee through your bank’s website
- Payments may take up to seven business days to post
- Check with your bank for any associated fees
What If I Can’t Pay My Water Bill?
Life happens, and sometimes it’s hard to pay bills on time. Both water providers in Roswell offer options for those struggling to pay:
City of Roswell Payment Plans
If you’re unable to pay your outstanding balance:
- Visit the Utility Billing Office in person to request a payment plan
- You must be delinquent and have received a past-due notice
- You must have a satisfactory payment history with the utility
- The length of the payment plan will depend on the total amount owed
- Only accounts classified as metered single-family residences, multi-family residences with individually metered units, or commercial accounts are eligible
Consequences of Non-Payment
It’s important to know what happens if you don’t pay your water bill:
-
For City of Roswell customers:
- Services will be shut off
- Accounts must be paid in full before reconnection
- Disconnected accounts with outstanding balances may have property liens placed
- Collection action may be pursued in Magistrate Court
-
For Berrendo Co-Op customers:
- Similar disconnection policies apply
- All past-due accounts must be brought current or have a payment plan established
Understanding Your Water Bill
Your water bill isn’t just a random number – it’s calculated based on:
- Base rate – Depends on your meter size
- Usage charges – Based on how much water you use
- Sewer charges – Usually based on water consumption
- Sanitation fees – For trash collection (City of Roswell bills only)
The City of Roswell may implement an annual rate adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index for utility costs, as established by a 2013 city ordinance. This ensures sufficient revenue for system maintenance.
Tips for Managing Your Water Bill
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to keep my water bills manageable:
- Check for leaks – Even small leaks can add up to big bills
- Install water-efficient fixtures – Low-flow showerheads and toilets make a difference
- Water lawns efficiently – Early morning or evening watering reduces evaporation
- Set up automatic payments – Never worry about late fees again
- Monitor your usage – Understanding patterns helps identify unusual consumption
Property Owners and Landlords: Know Your Responsibilities
If you’re a property owner who rents to tenants in Roswell, there’s important information you need to know:
- By state law (NMSA 1978 3-23-6(C)), you must file a Notice of Financial Responsibility with the city if your tenant will be responsible for water bills
- Without this form on file for EACH NEW TENANT, you (the property owner) are financially responsible if the tenant doesn’t pay
- The form can be obtained at the Utility Billing Office or found online
- This form must be filed when the tenant’s utility account is established
- Liens can be filed against properties with delinquent bills
Customer Service Contacts
Need help with your water bill? Here’s who to contact:
City of Roswell:
- Phone: (575) 624-6711
- Email: Available through their website
- Address: 415 N Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88201
Berrendo Water Co-Op:
- Phone: (575) 623-7665
- Address: 2004 East 19th St., Roswell, NM 88201
For meter issues: Call Central Control at (575) 347-5421
FAQs About Roswell Water Bills
Q: My water meter is leaking. Who do I call?
A: Don’t call a plumber! Contact Central Control at (575) 347-5421 for any meter-related issues.
Q: How often will my water rates change?
A: The City of Roswell may implement annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. Berrendo Co-Op rates are set by their board.
Q: What do I need to start new water service?
A: Both providers require an application form, proof of ID, and possibly a deposit. Property owners may need proof of ownership.
Q: Can I dispute my water bill?
A: Yes, the City of Roswell has a Utilities Billing Customer Dispute Form available online or at their office.
Q: Why is my water bill so high?
A: Common reasons include leaks, increased usage during summer months, or rate adjustments. If you suspect an error, contact customer service.
Final Thoughts
Paying your water bill in Roswell doesn’t have to be complicated. With multiple payment options available from both water providers, you can choose the method that’s most convenient for you.
Remember, keeping your water bill current is crucial to avoid disconnection and additional fees. If you’re having trouble paying, reach out to your provider sooner rather than later to explore payment plan options.
Stay hydrated, Roswell!
Meters and Meter Boxes
It is the duty of the occupant to keep and maintain each meter box in repair and the tops or lids firmly closed and in place.
The charge for water is based in meter size:
| Size of Meter (inches) | Quantity of Water Used Per Month (gallons) | Water Rate Charge Per Month (minimum) |
|---|---|---|
| 3/4 | First 3,000 | $ 8.25 |
| 1 | First 3,000 | $ 9.20 |
| 1 1/2 | First 3,000 | $14.05 |
| 2 | First 3,000 | $18.30 |
| 3 | First 3,000 | $23.20 |
| 4 | First 3,000 | $34.80 |
| 6 or larger | First 3,000 | $46.35 |
| One dollar ($1.00) for each one thousand (1,000) gallons used above three thousand (3,000) gallons per month | ||
The charge for sewer service is five dollars ($5.00) per month plus seventy-five cents ($0.75) for each one thousand (1,000) gallons used per month (see water used for irrigation purposes below).
The charge is applied to each:
Water & Sewer Rates
Apply for water service |
Residential |
Commercial |
All occupants of residential property, except the legal owner, must deposit the sum of sixty dollars ($60.00) with the clerk-treasurer to secure the payment of all utility service bills or charges.
All owners, lessees or renters of business or commercial property must deposit the sum of sixty dollars ($60.00) with the clerk-treasurer to secure the payment of all utility service bills or charges.
