Lawyer and Notary Inquires - User Rates Accounts
Final Bills
The City does not provide final user rates bills at the time of property sale.
User Rates accounts remain active and continue to bill based on the regular billing cycle.
Adjustments related to the sale of a property are typically handled through the Statement of Adjustments.
Billing Cycle
User Rates charges are billed approximately every four months (tri-annually).
Each bill may reflect:
- Water consumption for the billing period
- Applicable fixed charges (water, sewer, garbage)
- Sewer consumption for the billing period for non-residential properties
Estimating Charges at Time of Sale
If an up-to-date bill is not available at the time of sale, Revenue Services can assist with estimating daily charges.
- Estimates are based on the most recent comparable billing period
- Calculations may vary depending on seasonal usage and property type
Email User.Rates@nanaimo.ca to request a billing estimate. Requests must be done in writing and the City will not provide estimates over the phone. Please allow up to 2 business days for a response during busy times.
Water Leaks and Adjustments
If there are concerns about a possible water leak:
- Potential adjustments should be considered in the Statement of Adjustments
- The City will not adjust charges for prior billing periods where ownership has changed, unless written direction is provided by the legal representative
➡️ See Water Leaks: What to Do and How They May Affect Your Bill
Pre-Authorized Payment Plans
The sale of a property does not automatically cancel pre-authorized payment plans.
- Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing at least ten business days prior to the next withdrawal date
For accounts on the User Rates Installment Plan (1st of the month withdrawal):
- If the due date of the most recent invoice has not passed, payment of the "Account Balance as at" per the Tax Certificate is required by the due date to receive any applicable discount
- If the due date has passed, the full balance must be paid before the next withdrawal date (1st of the month), or any discount will be lost
Account Balance and Reporting
A "Utility Transaction Report" can be obtained through Web Customer. This report provides the most-up-to-date account balance and transaction history.
Important Considerations at Time of Sale
- Information provided in transaction reports or certificates reflects the account at the time it is issued and could change. It is intended for general and supporting purposes only.
- User Rates charges continue based on meter readings and billing cycles
- Estimates may be required when a current bill is not available
- Leak adjustments must be accounted for during conveyancing
- Payment plans must be actively cancelled (if applicable)
Property owners should ensure their online banking information is updated when making payments to their user rates account, as the account number remains with the property.
Need Assistance?
Revenue Services can assist with:
- Daily charge estimates
- Account balance inquiries
- Billing questions related to property transactions
Contact Us
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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