Utility Service Procedures

Date: 04/02/19
Contacts: Lieutenant Joe Messerich, (563) 589-4473
                  Assistant Chief Jeremy Jensen, (563) 589-4444

Please review the following information on the procedures for legitimate utility service appointments and how to distinguish legitimate service calls from potential scams.
 
The City occasionally conducts water meter installation, repair, and replacement services along with inspections, throughout the community. When doing so, the City department involved (water, utility billing, or engineering) will schedule appointments and conduct all work associated with the project. While the City does contract with an outside vendor to perform similar services from time to time, it does so under strict adherence to the City’s requirements.
 
All appointments are scheduled ahead of time and can be verified through the City of Dubuque. Authorized City staff are uniformed personnel who carry identification and travel in City of Dubuque vehicles clearly marked with the City logo. A person 18 years or older must be present during the meter service appointment. City staff will present their ID when arriving for the appointment. If at any time you are uncertain, please call the City of Dubuque Utility Billing Department and verify the appointment.
 
If you are approached by a non-uniformed person to have your meter fixed, removed, replaced, inspected or any other water meter work, please contact the Utility Billing Department at 563.589.4144 or call the Police.  If you feel you are being scammed or set up for a crime, contact the Police immediately.
 
Unfortunately, criminals often claim to be representatives from gas, electric, or water utilities to gain access to a potential victim’s residence or their personal information. It’s important to know what the legitimate procedures are for your utility services and to be suspicious of any activity that has not been officially scheduled by your utility company in advance.
 
For more information on utility scams, please visit: https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/16907-bbb-tip-utility-imposter-scam