reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 1 - GENERAL › Section 103-704 - Territory and Certificates

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
No existing public utility supplying water to the public, or
				  any individual, corporation, partnership, association, establishment or firm
				  undertaking the construction or acquisition of a utility, shall hereafter sell,
				  acquire, transfer, begin the construction or operation of any utility system,
				  or of any extension thereof, by the sale of stock or otherwise, without first
				  obtaining from the commission a certificate that the sale, transfer or
				  acquisition is in the public interest, or that public convenience and necessity
				  require or will require construction or operation of any utility system, or
				  extension. Such certificate shall be granted only after the applicable
				  information set forth in Subarticle 2, 103-710 et seq., has been filed with the
				  commission and provided to the ORS, and after notice has been given to the
				  Department of Health and Environmental Control and other interested water
				  utilities, and to the public, and after due hearing; provided, however, that
				  this regulation shall not be construed to require any existing water utility to
				  secure a certificate for an extension within or to territory already served by
				  it, necessary in the ordinary course of its business. But, if any water utility
				  in constructing or extending its lines, plant or system unreasonably
				  interferes, or is about to unreasonably interfere, with the service or system
				  of any other utility, the commission may make such order, and prescribe such
				  terms and conditions, in harmony with this regulation, as are just and
				  reasonable.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 1 - GENERAL › Section 103-705 - Utilities Rules and Regulations

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall adopt rules, regulations, operation
				  procedure policies, terms and conditions, etc., as may be necessary in the
				  operation of the utility. Such service "conditions or regulations" shall be
				  approved by and filed with the commission, along with certification that these
				  rules are consistent with the rules of the commission and provided to the
				  ORS.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 1 - GENERAL › Section 103-706 - Security Issues

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. No utility
				shall issue any securities without the approval of the commission. This rule
				shall not apply to any issue of securities payable within one year from the
				date of issue, except in case of subsequent issues made to refund short term
				obligations; but such short term obligations may be renewed by similar
				obligations without the approval of the commission for an aggregate period not
				exceeding two years.
B. Any utility
				desiring to issue securities may apply to the commission for approval of the
				proposed issue by filing an application with the commission and serving a copy
				on the ORS, together with a statement verified by (1) its president and
				secretary or other appropriate officers; (2) two of its incorporators, or (3)
				by its owner or owners, if it is unincorporated, setting forth:
(a) The amount and character of securities
				proposed to be issued;
(b) The
				purpose for which they are to be issued;
(c) The consideration for which they are to
				be issued;
(d) The description and
				estimated value of the property, if any, to be acquired through the proposed
				issue;
(e) The terms and conditions
				of the issuance; and
(f) The
				financial condition of the utility and its operations so far as
				relevant.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-710 - Location of Records and Reports

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
All records required by these rules are necessary for the
				  administration thereof, shall be available for inspection in this state, unless
				  otherwise specifically authorized by the commission. These records shall be
				  available for examination by the ORS or its authorized representatives at all
				  reasonable hours.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-711 - Retention of Records

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Unless otherwise specified by the commission, or by
				  regulations or commission Orders governing specific activities, all records
				  required by these rules shall be preserved according to the most current
				  edition of Regulations to Govern the Preservation of Records for Electric, Gas
				  and Water Utilities, published by the National Association of Regulatory
				  Utility Commissioners (NARUC). Following are certain modifications to those
				  record retention periods:
(A) Item 30.
				Plant ledgers:
a. Ledgers of utility plant
				accounts including land and other detailed ledgers showing the cost of utility
				plant by class for the life of the utility.
b. Continuing plant inventory ledger, book or
				card records showing description, location, quantities, cost, etc. of physical
				units (or items) of utility plant owned - life of the utility.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-712 - Data to be Filed with the Commission and Provided to the ORS

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
1. Annual Report.
				Each utility operating in the State shall file an annual report with the
				commission and provide a copy to the ORS giving accounting, and other
				information as the commission directs.
The commission or the ORS will provide an annual report form
				  upon request. If the utility's books are maintained on a calendar year, the
				  annual report must be filed on or before April 1st of each year. If the utility
				  uses a fiscal year other than December 31st, the annual report should be filed
				  within three months after the end of the fiscal year.
2. Current Information and Documents. The
				utility shall file with the commission and provide a copy to the ORS the
				following documents and information, and shall maintain such documents and
				information in a current status.
2.1. Tariff.
				A copy of each schedule of rates and charges for service, together with the
				applicable riders, including any rules and regulations or terms and conditions
				describing policies and practices in rendering service shall be provided to the
				commission and the ORS.
2.2.
				Contract Forms. A copy of each special contract for service, including aid to
				construction agreements, and rate or toll agreements shall be provided to the
				commission and the ORS.
2.3.
				Customer Bill. A copy of each type of customer bill form, which shall include
				the information which is normally shown on a customer's bill for service shall
				be provided to the ORS.
2.4.
				Operating Area Maps. A map of the utility's operating area. This map shall be
				revised annually and provided to the ORS unless such revision is unnecessary,
				in which event the utility shall notify the ORS that the map on file is
				current. The map should show:
(a) Location of
				pumping stations, purification plants and sources of supply;
(b) Potable water storage
				facilities;
(c) Mains by
				size;
(d) Location of valves and
				fire hydrants;
(e) Service area
				clearly drawn on operating area map utilizing proper surveying
				standards;
(f) Names of all
				communities (post offices) served;
(g) Location of blow off valves;
(h) Capacity of the system and;
(i) Location of cross-connection control
				devices
2.5. Authorized
				Utility Representative. The utility shall advise the commission and ORS of the
				name, title, address, email address, and telephone number of the person who
				should be contacted in connection with:
(a)
				General management duties;
(b)
				Customer relations (complaints);
(c) Engineering operations;
(d) Meter test and repairs; and,
(e) Emergencies during non-office
				hours.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-713 - Inspection of Plant and Equipment

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A.
				Each utility shall, upon request of the ORS, provide to the ORS a statement
				regarding the condition and adequacy of its plant, equipment, facilities, and
				service in such form as the commission may require or as the ORS may
				request.
B. Each utility shall keep
				sufficient records to give evidence of compliance with its inspection program
				as set forth in Subarticle 6, 103-760 et seq.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-714 - Interruption of Service

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. Each
				utility shall keep a record of any condition resulting in any interruption of
				service affecting its entire system or major division thereof, or any single
				community or an important division of a community, including a statement of the
				time, duration, and cause of any such interruption. The commission and the ORS
				should be notified of any interruption lasting more than six hours as soon as
				it comes to the attention of the utility and a complete report will be made
				after restoration of service.
B.
				Each utility shall make all reasonable efforts to prevent interruptions of
				service and, when such interruptions occur, shall endeavor to re-establish
				service with the shortest possible delay consistent with the safety of its
				consumers and the general public. Scheduled interruptions shall always be
				preceded by adequate notice to all affected customers, and will be made at a
				time that will not cause unreasonable inconvenience to customers.
C. All Water Utilities under the jurisdiction
				of the commission shall file with the commission and the ORS in writing a
				notice of any violation of a PSC regulation or a DHEC regulation which results
				in the issuance of a DHEC order. If the report includes information regarding a
				DHEC violation which results in the issuance of a DHEC order, the filer shall
				note if the DHEC order is under appeal and shall inform the commission of the
				resolution of the appeal. This notice shall be filed within twenty-four hours
				of the time of the inception of the violation or of the utility's receipt of
				the issuance of a DHEC order and shall detail the steps to be taken to correct
				the violation, if the violation is not corrected at the time of occurrence. The
				Company shall notify the commission and the ORS in writing within fourteen
				calendar days after the violation has been corrected.
D. All Water Utilities under the jurisdiction
				of the commission shall provide the ORS Consumer Services Division a copy of
				all advisories affecting ten or more customers within twenty-four hours of
				issuance. The utility shall notify the ORS Consumer Services Division in
				writing when the advisory has been lifted.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-715 - Accidents

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall, as soon as possible, report to the ORS
				  each accident happening in connection with the operation of its property,
				  facilities, or service, wherein any person shall have been killed or seriously
				  injured or whereby any serious property damage shall have been caused. Such
				  first report shall later be supplemented by as full a statement provided to the
				  ORS as is possible of the cause and details of the accident and the
				  precautions, if any, which have been taken to prevent similar
				  accidents.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-716 - Complaints

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Complaints by customers concerning the charges, practices,
				  facilities, or services of the utility shall be investigated promptly and
				  thoroughly. Each utility shall keep a record of all such complaints received,
				  which record shall show the name and address of the complainant, the date and
				  character of the complaint, and the adjustment or disposal made
				  thereof.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-717 - Meter History Records

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall maintain records of the following data,
				  where applicable, for each meter until retirement:
A. The complete identification-manufacturer,
				number, type, size, capacity, multiplier, and constants.
B. The dates of installation and removal from
				service together with the locations.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-718 - Meter Test Records and Reports

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall maintain records of at least the last two
				  tests made of any meter. The records of the meter test made at the time of the
				  meter's retirement shall be maintained for a minimum of three years. Test
				  records shall include the following:
1) The date and reason for the
				test;
2) The reading of the meter
				before making any test;
3) The
				accuracy "as found" at each rate of flow;
4) The accuracy "as left" at each rate of
				flow; and,
5) In the event tests of
				the meter are made by using a standard meter the utility shall retain all data
				taken at the time of the test in sufficiently complete form to permit the
				convenient checking of the test methods and calculations.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 2 - RECORDS AND REPORTS › Section 103-719 - Accounting Procedures

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
All books and records of the utility shall be maintained in
				  accordance with the NARUC Uniform System of Accounts for Class A, B and C Water
				  Utilities to the extent applicable, and such records must be made available for
				  examination by the ORS or its authorized representatives at all reasonable
				  hours. Full cooperation will be provided by the utility during rate adjustment
				  audits or compliance audits conducted by the ORS or its
				  representatives.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-720 - Meter Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Service shall be measured by meters furnished by the utility,
				  unless otherwise ordered by the commission and such meters shall maintain the
				  degree of accuracy as set forth in 103-722.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-721 - Meter Readings

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each water meter shall indicate clearly the unit of water
				  registered by such meter. Where the quantity of water is determined by
				  calculation from recording devices, the utility shall supply the consumer with
				  such information as will make clear the method by which the quantity is
				  determined.
1. Meter Reading Sheets or
				Cards. The meter reading sheets or cards shall show:
(a) Customer's name, address and rate
				classification;
(b) Identifying
				number and/or description of the meter(s);
(c) Meter readings;
(d) Multiplier, if any; and,
(e) If the reading has been
				estimated.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-722 - Meter Accuracy and Condition

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A.
				Installation Test--Every water meter, whether new or repaired, shall be in good
				order and shall be correct to within three (3) per cent. However, a utility
				which has less than one thousand customers and which has no facilities for
				opening meter cases and adjusting the mechanism, may put a meter back into
				service if it is not found to be in error by more than three and one-half (3
				1/2 ) per cent and appears otherwise to be in good order.
B. Method of Testing--All tests to determine
				the accuracy of registration of any water service meter shall be made with a
				suitable meter prover, and records of all regular or complaint tests shall be
				kept by the utility.
No meter shall be installed which is mechanically defective.
				  The capacity of the meter and the index mechanism should be consistent with the
				  water requirements of the customer.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-723 - Meter Seal

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Immediately after the pre-installation test or field test of
				  a water meter the utility shall affix a seal in such a manner that the meter
				  cannot be tampered with without breaking the seal.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-724 - Meter Location

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. All meters
				will be furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by the utility, and shall
				remain its property and be accessible to and subject to its control. Meters
				shall be located in accordance with good utility practices on the delivery side
				of the curb stop so as to control the entire water supply furnished to the
				premises. No meter shall be installed in any location on or off the premises
				where it may be unreasonably exposed to heat or cold or other cause of damage,
				or in an inaccessible or hazardous location.
B. Where water is furnished to the customer
				in accordance with a flat rate, the utility may install and maintain a meter
				located in accordance with good utility practices. After all customers in the
				utility's service area have been metered, the utility may make application to
				the commission and provide a copy to the ORS to obtain approval to change from
				a flat rate to a metered rate. Upon such application, the ORS will conduct an
				investigation to determine if a utility should utilize meters and, after
				hearing, the commission may order the use of metered rates. If no meters are in
				place, the commission after hearing, may order the installation of meters and
				the implementation of a metered rate.
C. The utility shall make available to the
				customer sketches of standard meter installations to demonstrate the way in
				which the customer's portion of the installation should be made.
D. In the event the customer desires any
				change in the location or position of the meter, meter box or vault, after they
				have been installed, such change in location shall be made by the utility at
				the expense of the customer.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-725 - Change in Character of Service

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
In order that the utility may provide a proper service
				  facility and metering installation the customer shall advise the utility of the
				  expected service requirements sufficiently in advance of the date service is
				  required, and shall also advise the utility of any significant increase or
				  decrease in service needs in sufficient time to change service
				  facilities.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 3 - METERS › Section 103-726 - Meter Damage

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Meters will be maintained by the utility so far as ordinary
				  wear and tear are concerned. When a meter is designed for and located within a
				  building or structure on the premises, the customer shall pay for all damages
				  due to external causes or heat or cold. When the meter or meter box is damaged
				  by the customer, the customer shall pay for damages pursuant to
				  R.103-733.5.
The customer shall notify the utility of any damage to or
				  improper functioning of the meter as soon as the customer becomes aware of
				  it.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-730 - Customer Information

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall:
A. Maintain up-to-date maps, plans, or
				records of its entire transmission and distribution systems, with such other
				information as may be necessary to enable the utility to advise prospective
				customers, and others entitled to the information, as to the facilities
				available for serving customers within its operating area.
B. Notify each affected customer in writing
				as prescribed by the commission of any proposed change in rates and charges. A
				certification that the above notice requirements have been met shall be
				furnished to the commission by the utility prior to the public
				hearing.
C. Provide that a complete
				schedule, contract forms, rules and regulations, etc., as filed with the
				commission and provided to the ORS, shall also be on file in the local offices
				of the utility and shall be open to the inspection of the public.
D. Upon request, inform its customers as to
				the method of reading meters and as to billing procedures, and shall assist
				prospective customers in selecting the most economical rate schedule
				applicable.
E. Provide adequate
				means (telephone, etc.) whereby each customer can contact an authorized
				representative of the utility at all hours in cases of emergency or unscheduled
				interruptions of service.
F. Notify
				any customer making a complaint pursuant to 103-716 that the utility is under
				the jurisdiction of the commission and the customer may notify the ORS of the
				complaint.
G. Inform each
				prospective customer from whom a deposit may be required of the provisions
				contained in 103-731 and its subsections.
H. Inform each prospective customer that the
				customer's service line shall conform to all local plumbing codes, and in the
				absence of such codes shall conform to the Southern Standard Plumbing
				Codes.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731 - Customer Deposits

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility may require from any customer or from any
				  prospective customer, a deposit intended to guarantee payment of bills for
				  service, if any of the following conditions exist:
(a) The customer's past payment record to a
				water utility shows delinquent payment practice, i.e. the customer has had two
				consecutive thirty-day arrears, or more than two non-consecutive thirty-day
				arrears in the past twenty-four months or,
(b) A new customer cannot furnish either a
				letter of good credit from a reliable source or an acceptable cosigner to
				guarantee payment, or
(c) A
				customer has no deposit, and presently is delinquent in payments (i.e., the
				customer has had two consecutive 30-day arrears, or more than two
				non-consecutive 30-day arrears, in the past 24 months), or
(d) A customer has had their service
				terminated for nonpayment or fraudulent use.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.1 - Amount of Deposit

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. A maximum
				deposit may be required up to an amount equal to an estimated two (2) months
				(60 days) bill for a new customer or a maximum deposit may be required up to an
				amount equal to the total actual bills of the highest two (2) consecutive
				months based on the experience of the preceding twelve (12) months or portion
				of the year, if on a seasonal basis.
B. All deposits may be subject to review
				based on the actual experience of the customer. The amount of the deposit may
				be adjusted upward or downward to reflect the actual billing experience and
				payment habits of the customer.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.2 - Interest on Deposits

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. Simple
				interest on deposits at the rate as determined by commission Order shall be
				paid by the utility to each customer required to make such deposit for the time
				it is held by the utility, provided that no interest need be paid unless the
				deposit is held longer than six months.
B. The interest shall be accrued annually and
				payment of such interest shall be made to the customer at least every two (2)
				years and at the time the deposit is returned.
C. The deposit shall cease to draw interest
				on the date it is returned, on the date service is terminated, or on the date
				notice is sent the deposit is no longer required to the customer's last known
				address, by bill insert, or by the notice method selected by the water utility
				customer and maintained in the customer's records at the water
				utility.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.3 - Deposit Records

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall keep a record to show:
(a) The name and address of each
				depositor;
(b) The amount and date
				of the deposit; and,
(c) Each
				transaction concerning the deposits.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.4 - Deposit Receipt

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Each utility shall issue a receipt of deposit to each
				  customer from whom a deposit is received, and shall provide means whereby a
				  depositor may establish his claim if his receipt is lost.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.5 - Deposit Retention

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Deposits shall be refunded completely with interest after two
				  years unless the customer has had two consecutive 30-day arrearages, or more
				  than two non-consecutive 30-day arrearages, in the past 24
				  months.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.6 - Unclaimed Deposits

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A record of each unclaimed deposit must be maintained for at
				  least one year during which time the water utility shall make a reasonable
				  effort to return the deposit. Unclaimed deposits, together with accrued
				  interest, shall be turned over to the South Carolina State Treasurer as
				  prescribed by law.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-731.7 - Deposit Credit

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Where a customer has been required to make a deposit, this
				  shall not relieve the customer of the obligation to pay the service bills when
				  due. Where such deposit has been made and service has been discontinued for
				  reason of non-payment of bill, a utility shall apply the deposit of such
				  customer toward the discharge of the customer's account and shall as soon
				  thereafter as practicable refund the customer any excess of the deposit. If
				  however, the customer whose service has been disconnected for non-payment, pays
				  the full amount on his account within 72 hours after service has been
				  disconnected and applies for reconnection, the utility may not charge an
				  additional deposit except under the provisions of 1 of this
				  rule.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732 - Customer Billing

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
The utility shall bill each customer as promptly as possible
				  following the reading of the customer's meter and render a receipt of payment
				  upon request.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.2 - Customer Bill Forms

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
The bill shall show:
(a) The reading of the meter at the end and
				beginning of the period for which the bill is rendered;
(b) The date on which the meter was
				read;
(c) The number and kind of
				units metered;
(d) The applicable
				rate, schedule, or identification of the applicable rate schedule. If the
				actual rates are not shown, the bill shall carry a statement to the effect that
				the applicable rate schedule will be furnished on request;
(e) Total amount due;
(f) A distinct marking to identify an
				estimated bill;
(g) Any conversions
				from meter reading units to billing units or any calculations to determine
				billing units from recording or other devices, or any other factors used in
				determining the bill. In lieu of such information on the bill, a statement must
				be on the bill advising that such information can be obtained by contacting the
				utility's principal office;
(h)
				Number of days for which bill is rendered;
(i) Date payments due;
(j) Date of bill.
(k) Telephone number where utility can be
				contacted during regular office hours and non-office hours.
(l) The telephone number and email address of
				the Office of Regulatory Staff.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.3 - Late Payment Charges

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A maximum of one and one-half percent (1 1/2 %) may be added
				  to any unpaid balance not paid within 25 days of the billing date to cover the
				  cost of collection and carrying accounts in arrears. This method of late
				  payment charge will be made in lieu of any other penalty.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.4 - Payment by Check

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
The utility at its option for good cause may refuse to accept
				  a check tendered as payment on a customer's account, and require payment in
				  cash or other certified funds. Good cause must be justified by a water utility
				  by evidencing a credit history problem or by evidencing insufficient funds of
				  the utility customer or applicant. For the purposes of this regulation, the
				  water utility may not consider indebtedness that was incurred by the customer
				  or any member of his household more than six (6) years prior to the time of
				  application.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.5 - Charges for Discontinuance and Reconnection

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
Whenever service is turned off for violation of rules and
				  regulations, nonpayment of bills, or fraudulent use of service, or at the
				  request of the customer, the utility may make reasonable charges to be approved
				  by the commission for the cost incurred in discontinuing the service and
				  reconnection and require payment for service billed and for service used which
				  has not previously been billed.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.6 - Estimated Bills

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
No utility shall send a customer an estimated bill, except
				  for good cause, when the meter could not be read or was improperly registering.
				  In no instance will more than one estimated bill be rendered within a 60-day
				  period, unless otherwise agreed to by the customer.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-732.7 - Deferred Payment Plan

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
The utility shall provide for the arrangement of a deferred
				  payment plan to enable a residential customer to make payment by installments
				  where such customer is unable to pay the amount due for water service. The
				  deferred payment plan shall require the affected customer to maintain his
				  account current and pay not less than 1/6 of the outstanding balance for a
				  period not to exceed six months. The outstanding balance may include the late
				  payment charge authorized by R.103-732.3. Service
				  to such customer shall not be terminated unless the utility has informed the
				  customer that such deferred payment plan is available. A deferred payment plan
				  is any agreement to extend or defer a payment cut-off date by more than 5 work
				  days. If a Customer defaults on a Deferred Payment Plan, the Utility may
				  terminate service pursuant to 103-735.1.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733 - Adjustments of Bills

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If it is found that a utility has directly or indirectly, by
				  any device whatsoever, demanded, charged, collected or received from any
				  customer a greater or lesser compensation for any service rendered or to be
				  rendered by such utility than that prescribed in the approved rate schedules of
				  such utility, then filed in the manner provided in Title 58 of the South
				  Carolina Code of Laws; or if it is found that any customer has received or
				  accepted any service from a utility for a compensation greater or lesser than
				  that prescribed in such schedules; or if, for any reason, billing error has
				  resulted in a greater or lesser charge than that incurred by the customer for
				  the actual service rendered, then the method of adjustment for such overcharge
				  or undercharge shall be as provided by the following:
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733.1 - Fast or Slow Meters

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If the overcharge or undercharge is the result of a fast or
				  slow meter, then the method of compensation shall be as follows:
(a) In case of a disputed account, involving
				the accuracy of a meter, such meter shall be tested upon request of the
				customer, as specified in 103-760(B).
(b) In the event that the meter so tested is
				found to have an error in registration of more than three (3) percent, the
				bills will be increased or decreased accordingly, but in no case shall such a
				correction be made for more than sixty (60) days or two (2) billing periods,
				whichever is greater, prior to determination of meter error.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733.2 - Customer Inadvertently Overcharged

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If the utility has inadvertently overcharged a customer as a
				  result of a misapplied schedule, an error in reading the meter, a skipped meter
				  reading, or any other human or machine error, except as provided in 1 of this
				  rule, the utility shall, at the customer's option, credit or refund the excess
				  amount paid by that customer or credit the amount billed as provided by the
				  following:
(a) If the interval during
				which the customer was overcharged can be determined, then the utility shall
				credit or refund the excess amount charged during that entire interval provided
				that the applicable statute of limitations shall not be exceeded.
(b) If the interval during which the customer
				was overcharged cannot be determined, then the utility shall credit or refund
				the excess amount charged during the 12-month period preceding the date when
				the billing error was discovered.
(c) If the exact usage and/or demand incurred
				by the customer during the billing periods subject to adjustment cannot be
				determined, then the refund shall be based on an appropriate estimated usage
				and/or demand.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733.3 - Customer Inadvertently Undercharged

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If the utility has undercharged any customer as a result of a
				  misapplied schedule, an error in reading the meter, a skipped meter reading, or
				  any human or machine error, except as provided in 1 and 5 of this rule, then
				  the utility may recover the deficient amount as provided as follows:
(a) If the interval during which a customer
				was undercharged can be determined, then the utility may collect the deficient
				amount incurred during that interval up to a maximum period of six
				months.
(b) If the interval during
				which a customer was undercharged cannot be determined, then the utility may
				collect the deficient amount incurred during the six-month period preceding the
				date when the billing error was discovered by the utility.
(c) The customer shall be allowed to pay the
				deficient amount, in equal installments added to the regular monthly bills,
				over the same number of billing periods which occurred during the interval the
				customer was subject to pay the deficient amount.
(d) If the usage and/or demand incurred by
				that person during the billing periods subject to adjustment cannot be
				determined, then the adjustment shall be based on estimated usage and/or
				demand. If a meter has ceased to register, the adjustment shall be based on the
				average registration of the meter over a six-month period when in
				order.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733.4 - Customer Willfully Overcharged

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If the utility has willfully overcharged any customer, the
				  utility shall refund the difference, plus interest, as stated in the South
				  Carolina Code of Laws Section
				  34-31-20(A) or
				  such future Code of Laws of South Carolina governing the legal rate of interest
				  of cases of accounts stated and in all cases where any sum or sums of money
				  shall be ascertained and shall draw interest according to law for the period of
				  time that can be determined that the customer was
				  overcharged.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-733.5 - Customer Undercharged Because of Fraud or Willful Misrepresentation

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
If the utility has undercharged any customer because of the
				  customer's fraudulent actions, such as tampering with, or bypassing the meter,
				  or because the customer has willfully misrepresented a material fact resulting
				  in an undercharge, or if it is shown that the customer is aware of fraudulent
				  or illegal action by another person, such as tampering with, or bypassing the
				  meter and it is evident that such tampering or bypassing benefits the customer,
				  or if it is evident that a customer has knowledge of being undercharged without
				  notifying the utility as such, then notwithstanding 1 of this rule, the utility
				  shall recover the deficient amount provided as follows:
(a) If the interval during which the customer
				was undercharged can be determined, then the utility shall collect the
				deficient amount incurred during that entire interval, provided that the
				applicable statute of limitations is not exceeded.
(b) If the interval during which the customer
				was undercharged cannot be determined, then the utility shall collect the
				deficient amount incurred during the 12-month period preceding the date when
				the billing error was discovered by the utility.
(c) If the usage and/or demand incurred by
				that customer during the billing periods subject to adjustment cannot be
				determined, then the adjustment shall be based on an appropriate estimated
				usage and/or demand.
(d) In
				addition to the above, if the metering equipment has been removed or damaged,
				then the utility shall collect the estimated cost of repairing and/or replacing
				such equipment.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-734 - Applications for Service

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
A. All
				applications for water service may be made orally or in writing.
B. The accepted application shall constitute
				a contract between the company and the applicant, obligating the applicant to
				pay for water service in accordance with the utility's tariff currently on file
				with the Public Service Commission and the ORS, and to comply with these rules
				and regulations.
C. When a customer
				desires to have his service terminated, he must notify the utility and such
				notification may be orally or in writing. The utility shall be allowed a
				reasonable period of time after the receipt of such notice to take a final
				reading of the meter and to discontinue service.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-735.1 - Procedures for Termination of Service

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
(A) Service may be terminated for non-payment
				of a bill, provided that the water utility has made a reasonable attempt to
				effect collection and has given the customer written notice, sent by regular
				mail to the customer's billing address, that the customer has ten days in which
				to make settlement on the customer's account or have the customer's service
				disconnected. Service will be terminated only on Monday through Thursday
				between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., unless provisions have been made
				to have someone available to accept payment and reconnect service.
(B) Service may be terminated for non-payment
				of any connection charge properly imposed by the utility and owed by the
				customer provided that the utility has made a reasonable attempt to effect
				collection and has given the customer 30 days written notice, sent by certified
				mail to the customer's billing address, with a copy forwarded to the ORS. A
				connection charge owed by a third party or a previous occupant or owner of
				premises is not deemed to be owed by the current customer, and that current
				customer's service may not be disconnected under such circumstances. At the
				expiration of the 30 day period, the utility shall post a second notice by
				certified mail to the customer advising that in not less than 10 days nor more
				than 30 days, the customer's service may be disconnected at any time without
				further notice. The utility must inform the customer in the notice that the
				customer can contact the ORS if the customer disputes the discontinuance of
				service.
(C) Upon termination of
				service, the water utility shall deliver a final written notice, such as a door
				hanger, at the customer's premises. The notice shall notify the customer that
				service has been disconnected and shall provide contact information for the
				utility, Office of Regulatory Staff, and instructions for reestablishing
				service. The water utility shall maintain records of the efforts made to
				contact the customers pursuant to section
				103-735.1. Termination of service
				may be delayed in case of inclement weather, emergencies, or operational
				conflicts.
(D) The water utility
				shall provide a copy of the termination notice to any third party identified by
				the customer upon establishment of the service account or at any time
				thereafter.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-736 - Insufficient Reasons for Denying Service

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
The following shall not constitute cause for refusal of
				  service to a present or prospective customer:
A. Non-payment for service by a previous
				occupant of the premises to be served, unless such previous occupant shall
				benefit from such new service.
B.
				Failure to pay for merchandise purchased from the utility.
C. Failure to pay for a different type or
				class of public utility service.
D.
				Failure to pay the bill of another customer as guarantor thereof.
South Carolina Code of Regulations › Chapter 103 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Article 7 - WATER UTILITIES › Subarticle 4 - CUSTOMER RELATIONS › Section 103-737 - Right of Access

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 6, June 28, 2024
1. The
				authorized agents of the utility shall have the right of access to the premises
				supplied with water, at reasonable hours, for the purpose of maintenance and
				reading of meters, examining fixtures, protective device and pipes, observing
				the manner of using water, and for any other purpose which is proper and
				necessary in the conduct of the utility's business.
2. When a water line which is property of a
				utility is on the property of a resident in the utilities' service area which
				is on file with the ORS, the resident shall provide reasonable access to the
				utility for the maintenance thereof. Any damage done to the property by the
				utility shall be corrected by the restoration of comparable grass, shrubbery
				and trees from nursery stock to conform the condition before the maintenance
				process began.