In Massachusetts, there isn’t one statewide procedure for paying a final water bill when selling a home. Water and sewer are usually handled by the individual city, town, or water district, so the exact process depends on where the property is located.
Generally, for a real estate closing:
- Request a final water meter reading from the local Water/Sewer Department.
- Usually the seller, REALTOR, or closing attorney can request it.
- Provide the property address, closing date, seller information, and buyer’s name. Some municipalities want the request several days—or even a couple of weeks—before closing.
- The municipality obtains a final meter reading and calculates the balance through the closing.
- Check the required payment method. This is important because some Massachusetts municipalities require cash, certified/bank check, or another specific form of payment for final bills rather than an ordinary personal check.
- Keep the paid receipt/final bill for the closing attorney. Some municipalities also issue a water/sewer lien certificate confirming the charges associated with the property.
The final bill is paid by the seller, either directly to the municipality or as part of the closing process. Your closing attorney will often coordinate this so there is proof that the balance has been handled.
Check the required payment method. This is important because some Massachusetts municipalities require cash, certified/bank check, or another specific form of payment for final bills rather than an ordinary personal check.
One important tip: Don't assume that paying the homeowner's latest regular quarterly bill is enough. You generally want a final reading tied to the closing date so usage between the last regular bill and the transfer of ownership is accounted for.