Ageman determines suspension of sewage tariff collection without connection feasibility in Manaus

The measure applies to properties on roads without a public collection network in place, units with a negative threshold, internal villages, back of lots and cases where it is not possible to make the connection due to gravity.

According to Ageman, the existence of a sewage system close to the property is not sufficient to justify the charge. The tariff depends on proof that the property can be effectively connected to the system.

Águas de Manaus will have five working days, counting from receipt of the notification, to suspend the charge in cases where the viability of the connection is not proven. The company will also not be able to unilaterally resume billing or charge amounts relating to previous periods until Ageman decides on the possibility of connection.

The agency also ordered the concessionaire to correct any charges made in violation of the rules. Within ten working days, the company must present a report with a list of the properties charged, the network situation in each case and the technical elements that indicate whether the connection is viable or not.

The document must also inform the measures adopted to correct the billing and the measures related to the refund or compensation of amounts possibly charged incorrectly, when applicable.

Ageman informed that the suspension of the tariff in cases where there is no proven viability of connection is provided for in legislation and regulatory standards. It is up to the agency to analyze the conditions of each property and decide on the charge.