Fort Lauderdale, FL – A Fort Lauderdale homeowner is challenging an unusually large utility bill after a hidden irrigation system failure led to the loss of millions of gallons of water over several weeks.
The issue came to light after city officials notified the property owner of unusually high water consumption.
According to records reviewed by the city, an underground irrigation pipe had broken, allowing water to escape continuously without being immediately detected.
The homeowner’s representative said the first bill connected to the leak totaled more than $32,000.
After receiving the notice, an irrigation contractor was hired to inspect the property and identify the source of the problem.
The company reportedly discovered a damaged underground pipe and completed repairs.
Documentation of the repair work was later submitted to city officials.
Despite the repairs, a second bill arrived, pushing the total amount owed to more than $60,000.
City records indicated that more than two million gallons of water passed through the property’s meter during the period affected by the leak.
Officials estimated that amount of water would be enough to fill well over 100 average residential swimming pools.
Fort Lauderdale reviewed the account and determined that the water meter functioned properly and accurately measured the water usage.
After verifying the repairs, the city approved a leak adjustment under its utility policies and issued a credit worth nearly $30,000.
Even with the reduction, the homeowner continues to dispute the remaining balance.
City officials maintain that while leak adjustments can reduce certain charges, customers remain responsible for water that passes through a properly functioning meter.
The matter remains unresolved as discussions continue between the homeowner and the city.