My question involves a consumer law issue in the State of: Florida
I recently had a misread on my water bill, at least that's what they told me. The bill was $49.00. Paid. No problem. Then the next month the bill was $200. Ok, we called, they came back out, and reread, said the bill the month before was not read correctly. Ok, no biggie. Paid that one. No problem. Then this months bill is $465. Big prob. I checked the meter, it was not spinning, so no leak. I filled up a gallon jug, seems to be accurate. Ok, I did remember increasing the sprinkler system time some, but not that much. Sprinkler system time was increased approx 20%. My water bill is normally around $100.
So, I called customer service. The lady was real nice. Says that they were out to reread, they checked for leaks and there were none. I said ok, well I guess I have to pay it, but can we pay payments until we get caught up. She transferred me to the accounting dept. I left a message.
OK, here is the deal. The account is in my wife's grandfathers name, who is deceased. The lady from accounting called me back, but would not talk to me because my name is not on the account. I have been paying the bill for 8 years now, never late, etc... I have excellent credit. She had to ask management and said she would call me back. Calls back, says that they cannot work out a payment plan, I own that $465, plus any current usage. PLUS, I have to come in and put the account in my name , and put down a deposit of $125 (I think that was the amount, smoke was coming out of my ears at this point). Can they get away with this. I have a 2 year old and obviously need water, but I can almost get a well dug for this much. Should I get some legal representation? Thanks in advance.

