July 8, 2011

Challenging Your Drainage Charge

The City of Houston is offering residents the opportunity to challenge the drainage utility charge calculated for their property. The first step is to request verification and correction of the calculation. This may be done utilizing the form that accompanied the drainage charge notification letters previously sent to all residents, or online at www.rebuildhouston.org. Residents will be notified by mail as to the outcome of the verification process. Residents who are not satisfied with this outcome may file a formal appeal. Once the appeal is requested, the City will send confirmation of a hearing date, time and location.

Measuring Tool

The drainage charge is calculated based on the amount of impervious surface on a property. Impervious surface is the portion of a property that is covered by a house, garage, driveway, sidewalk, deck, swimming pool or other structures that will impact the City's drainage conveyance system. The City is offering a convenient on-line tool so that residents may easily measure their property's impervious surface. The online tool will also allow property owners to view how much their drainage charge will be. Instructional tutorials and other information are also available.

For more information about the verification and correction process, appeals, measuring impervious surface or other drainage related questions, please visit www.rebuildhouston.org or contact the Drainage Customer Service line at 713.371.1111.