1. Check your eligibility
The property owner or an authorized property manager has to make any account changes. If you are renting, you should contact your landlord to discuss placing the account in your name.
2. Gather your information
Property Owners
Congratulations on your new property! Here is what you need to get your account started:
- A copy of your Photo ID or Federal Tax ID Number
- Proof of Ownership of the property. We'll attempt to verify ownership using Kent County Property Search. If you're listed as the owner, great. If not, don't worry; it can take a few weeks to update after a sale. If you provide us a copy of your deed, purchase agreement, or settlement statement, we can use that instead.
Reminder
- Regardless of the name on the account, charges for water and sewer services remain with the property. If left unpaid, the charges will be added to the property owner's property taxes (a lien will be placed on the property). For more info about unpaid bills and liens, check out our Lien Guide.
Property Managers
We are happy to work with you! Here is what you'll need:
- A signed Management Agreement between you and the property owner, listing the specific property address.
- A copy of the property owner's ID.
- A copy of your tenant's ID if the account will be in their name.
- Proof of Ownership of the property, if Kent County Property Search does not yet show it in the new owner's name.
Tenants
You'll need to speak with your landlord as they will be the one to make any account changes. Many times the landlord will keep the water account in their name and include your water usage in the rent.
If your landlord decides to put the water account in your name, be sure to give them a copy of your Photo ID to submit with their application. JPEG format is sufficient.
Commercial Customers
The setup process for commercial properties has one extra step. Besides the information listed above, you'll need to submit a Non-Domestic User Survey with your application.
Step 3.Review the Rules and Regulations
Make sure you take a look at the City of Grand Rapids Water Systems Rules and Regulations(PDF) for any lingering questions or clarifications needed.
5. We'll review your form
Expect to hear from us within 7-10 business days, either with your new account information, or to request more information.