What are the legal obligations of a public utility in regards to billing?

In North Carolina, public utilities are obligated to issue an accurate bill to the customer that reflects the amount of energy or service used during the billing period. This is to ensure that the customer is only charged for the energy they have used. Additionally, the bill must also notify the customer of any additional fees or taxes that may be included in their total bill. Public utilities must also provide customers with clear and comprehensive information about the different types of plans and services they offer, such as discounts or payment plans. This information must be provided in easy to understand language so that customers can make informed decisions. Public utilities must provide a reasonable time frame for customers to pay their bills. This time frame may be extended if the customer has a valid reason for not being able to pay on time, such as financial hardship. Finally, public utilities are responsible for making sure that there is no extra or hidden costs when it comes to billing customers. All rates and fees must be clearly outlined. Any changes to the billing process must also be communicated to the customer. If a customer believes that they are being overcharged or is not being properly charged, they have the right to dispute the bill and the public utility must investigate the matter.

Related FAQs

What is the role of the Department of Energy (DOE) in utilities law?
What is the purpose of the Natural Gas Act of 1978?
What are the rights and responsibilities of utility customers in relation to rate disputes?
What is the role of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in utilities law?
What is the scope of utilities law?
What is the purpose of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)?
What are the legal issues involved in the sale and transfer of public utility assets?
What are the responsibilities of a public utility customer?
What are the rights of public utility customers in relation to customer service?
What is the role of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) in utilities law?

What are the legal obligations of a public utility in regards to billing?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts