Missing water heater, do utility company remove them?

[Jon Dang]

Hello BP family,

I just recently evicted a tenant for not paying rent. I went to the unit and there is no water! I am wondering if the city water company removes water meter for late bills. I checked and the whole water meter is missing.

I am assuming the tenant did not pay the water bill. I am very confused and worried.

[Jay Hinrichs]

YUP only the water company takes meters I don't think crooks find any value in them .. but I could be wrong in the tough areas of the US you would be surprised what crooks take.. its more common though for tenants to cut the main line to the meter put a hose on it and then connect to the line coming into the house. that works for a month or two before the water company figures out their water is being jacked.  same with power.. these are generational tricks of the trade handed down ..