Unpaid water bill surprise

[Bobby E.]

I Recently closed on a property, went to have the water turned on and was notified there is an unpaid water bill of $1,500. it doesn't sound like there is a lien on the property but a few things I'd like help with:

1. If there is a lien and the title company missed it, what recourse do i have? Isn't that the responsibility of the title co.?

2. If there is no lien, isn't the outstanding balance the responsibility of the individual who had it in their name? My understanding is that because there was no lien and the property has since switched owners, it is not my responsibility. Is this accurate?

3. Just curious, how does this get missed?

Thanks in advance for any advice or answers!