Updated Multifamily Rates Now in Effect
New multifamily water rates took effect in February 2026, and many residents could see lower water bills this summer. Here is who is affected and why.
- Who: Fredville residents who live in multifamily complexes of four or more units.
- Why: City leaders listened to residents' concerns, and the City Council reviewed and approved updated rates.
- The good news: if your household's water use stays at or below previous months, your monthly bill should drop.
- Keep in mind: the city bills the owner of a multifamily complex, not individual residents. How costs are passed along to tenants is up to the owner.
- Good to know: every year the city reviews what rate changes are needed to keep its water system in good shape. New rates usually start on October 1.
For a full breakdown of how rates are figured, see water billing rates. Questions from multifamily customers go to Utility Customer Service: (555) 010-4485.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as multifamily?
Any property with four or more units.
How are multifamily water and wastewater charges set?
Charges combine the volume of water the complex uses with the number of units on the property.
How is the volume measured?
A master meter records all of the water flowing into the complex.
What are the current multifamily rates?
Rates depend on total water volume and the number of apartments or units:
- Water, up to 250,000 gallons: $4.60 per 1,000 gallons
- Water, above 250,000 gallons: $5.40 per 1,000 gallons
- Wastewater: $5.20 per 1,000 gallons
- Unit charge: $4.25 per unit
When did the updated rates start?
The current multifamily rates took effect in February 2026.
Will the city apply the new rates to earlier bills?
No. The updated rates apply only from their effective date forward, so earlier bills will not be adjusted.
How does Fredville set its rates each year?
A consultant helps the city complete an annual rate study that identifies the adjustments needed. Those adjustments pay to maintain existing water and wastewater lines and plants, build new infrastructure, buy treated water and treat wastewater. New rates normally take effect October 1.
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