WWLTV recently conducted an investigation that uncovered a billing error from the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) that cost a Gentilly grandmother over $36,000. The error came to light when the woman noticed her monthly bill had skyrocketed from the usual $100 to $1,200. After months of fruitless attempts to resolve the issue on her own, she turned to WWLTV for help.
The investigation revealed that the SWBNO had been charging the woman for sewage services for a vacant lot next to her property, which she did not own. Despite presenting documentation proving her ownership boundaries, the SWBNO refused to correct the error.
With WWLTV’s involvement, the SWBNO finally admitted their mistake and agreed to reimburse the woman for the overcharged amount. In addition to the refund, the SWBNO promised to adjust her future bills to ensure she was only paying for the services she actually received.
The resolution of this billing error serves as a cautionary tale for other SWBNO customers to carefully review their bills and immediately address any discrepancies. The impact of such errors on individuals, especially those on fixed incomes like the Gentilly grandmother, can be financially devastating.
The SWBNO has since pledged to conduct a review of their billing practices to prevent similar errors from occurring in the future. They have encouraged customers who suspect billing errors to reach out for assistance.
The involvement of WWLTV in exposing this issue underscores the importance of investigative journalism in holding utilities and other service providers accountable for their actions. Thanks to their efforts, the Gentilly grandmother was able to recoup her losses and ensure fair treatment moving forward.
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