PULLING A WATER BILL PAYOFF IN MARYLAND

Objective:

To provide detailed, step-by-step instructions for obtaining a water bill payoff in the state of Maryland. This SOP is designed to be easily followed by individuals with no prior experience in handling utility bill payoffs.

Scope:

This procedure applies to paralegals or any personnel responsible for obtaining water bill payoffs for properties located in Maryland.

Required Tools and Information:

• Property address

• Owner's name

• Account number (if available)

• Access to the internet and a phone

• Authorization to obtain payoff information (if required by the utility company)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gather Necessary Information

• Property Address: Ensure you have the complete and accurate address of the property.

• Owner's Name: The full name of the property owner.

• Account Number: If available, having the account number can expedite the process.

• Authorization: If the utility company requires authorization, ensure you have a signed document from the property owner authorizing you to obtain payoff information.

2. Identify the Water Utility Provider

• Determine which water utility company services the property. In Maryland, common providers include Baltimore City Department of Public Works, Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC), and various county water departments.

• You can usually find this information on previous bills or by searching online for water utility providers based on the property address.

3. Access the Utility Provider's Website

• Navigate to the official website of the water utility provider.

• Look for sections such as "Customer Service," "Billing," or "Payoff Requests."

4. Online Payoff Request

• Some utility providers offer online forms to request a payoff statement.

• Complete the required form with the property address, owner's name, and account number.

• Submit the form as instructed and note any reference number provided for tracking your request.

5. Phone Request

• If online options are not available or preferred, locate the customer service phone number on the utility provider's website.

• Call the customer service number during business hours.

• Be prepared to provide the property address, owner's name, and account number.

• Request the payoff amount and any additional fees that may apply.

6. Authorization and Identification

• If the utility company requests authorization, send the signed authorization document via email or fax as instructed by the representative.

• Verify your identity if required by providing necessary details such as the last four digits of the owner's social security number or other identification information.

7. Follow-Up

• Confirm the receipt of your request and ask for an estimated time frame for when you will receive the payoff amount.

• Take note of the customer service representative's name and any reference number for future follow-up.

8.  Receive and Review the Payoff Statement

• Once you receive the payoff statement, review it for accuracy.

• Ensure all charges are correctly listed and that the total payoff amount is clearly stated.

9. Document the Payoff Statement

• Save the payoff statement in the relevant case or property file.

• Notify the appropriate parties (e.g., property owner, legal team) that the payoff statement has been obtained and provide them with a copy if needed.

Tips and Considerations:

• Timing: Request the payoff statement well in advance of any deadlines to allow for processing time.

• Accuracy: Double-check all provided information for accuracy to avoid delays.

• Follow-Up: Keep track of follow-up dates and maintain communication with the utility provider to ensure timely receipt of the payoff statement.

Contact Information:

Baltimore City Department of Public Works: Website, Phone: (410) 396-5398

WSSC Water: Website, Phone: (301) 206-4001

Other County Water Departments: Search for the specific county's water department contact information online.

Conclusion:

Following these detailed steps will ensure that you can successfully obtain a water bill payoff for a property in Maryland. Keep this SOP updated with any changes to utility provider processes or contact information.