This is actually a very common, yet under-reported phenomenon. The huge bill that some folks in Detroit get after having the newest [[automated) meter installed normally results from months or years of bills that have been underestimated by the water department. The good news is that you can protest that bill immediately and eventually the water dpt is likely to reduce the charges since it is their error [[assuming you don't have any leaks or anything like that). The bad news is that you have to deal with their customer service representatives to protest the bill which can be daunting. I wouldn't suggest going it alone. Working with the Ombudsman's Office or with a City Council member's office is probably the quickest way to get that bill resolved.