It's Highly Unlikely You've Ever Had a Water Bill This Big

A Houston man is speaking out after his family was stunned in June to receive a water bill for $15,000 that has now resulted in his service being disconnected.

The bill, which has since been adjusted to about $9,500, was apparently the result of a water main break that happened when Johnell Engleton was out of town.

When he returned he found standing water, but never expected such a large bill, according to KHOU-TV.

“It’s outrageous,” Engleton said of the bill which is reportedly almost half his yearly income.

“I have a little girl, a family. I’m a working man. I’m willing to make some type of resolution, but I need to get met halfway,” he added to KHOU-TV.

Engleton's landlord is now adjusting his rent so he can pay the bill, but doesn't feel he is responsible for it.

Spokesman Alvin Wright released a statement, but couldn't discuss specifics in the case because individual billing matters are confidential.

"Some causes of high bills include, but are not limited to, private leaks at the property or lack of payments received on the account. In the event of a high bill, it is imperative that the customer stay in communication with Utility Customer Service staff, in order to be made aware of all options available to prevent the addition of late fees being applied to the account or service interruptions from occurring."

Featured image courtesy of Shutterstock.

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