What are the rights of public utility customers?
Public utility customers in Washington have a variety of rights to ensure utility services, such as electricity and water, are provided safely and reliably. Customers have a right to safe and reliable service from their utility, which entails services that are uninterrupted and at a level the customer can accept. Customers also have the right to privacy, which means their utility company cannot share their information without permission. Additionally, customers have the right to be treated fairly, with no discrimination prohibited by state or federal law. This includes access to public utilities as long as the customer can pay the associated fees. Furthermore, utility customers have the right to dispute bills, have their utility payment arrangements accepted, and have access to energy conservation and efficiency programs. Customers also have the right to receive billing statements which clearly outline services, the fees associated with them, and the options that are available. Lastly, utility customers have the right to seek damages if they suffer financial losses due to their utility’s improper services or failure to provide services. All public utility customers in Washington are protected by these rights and can take action if their rights are violated.
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