Residents of Almaty owe more than 550 million tenge for water supply and wastewater services. Almaty Su has warned that it will begin charging penalties for late payments, while persistent non-payers could face water supply restrictions and debt collection through the courts, according to infohub.kz.
According to the utility, about 250 million tenge is owed by residents of apartment buildings. Another 300 million tenge or more is owed by owners of private homes.
Almaty Su reminded customers that water supply and sewerage bills must be paid by the 25th of each month inclusive.
If payment is not received by that deadline, penalties will begin accruing starting October 26.
With prolonged non-payment, the consequences can be more serious. The utility has the right to restrict or completely cut off water supply, as well as go to court to recover the debt.
However, water will not be shut off without warning. Customers must be notified of the upcoming measures three days before supply is restricted.
If the case goes to court, the debtor will have to repay not only the principal debt but also the accrued penalty. In addition, court costs may be imposed.
How to avoid a water cutoff
Almaty Su recommends that residents of Almaty regularly check their utility charges and pay their bills on time.
If a debt has already accumulated, it is best to pay it off before October 25 to avoid penalties and possible additional costs.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that water and sewerage prices rose in Almaty on October 1. The cold water tariff for households increased to 178.06 tenge per cubic meter, and the wastewater tariff to 119.46 tenge. Almaty Su attributed the tariff increase to higher electricity prices, rising wages and the wear and tear of utility networks.