When purchasing property, it is important that all matters regarding water and sewer charges to the property are finalized with the seller. To ensure that no unnecessary charges will be passed onto a buyer, a Certificate of Water and Sewer Charges (Lien Certificate) must be filed by the seller, buyer, or real estate broker that will show a complete and final meter reading and that all previous charges to the property under the seller's name have been paid.
The Certificate of Water and Sewer Charges (Lien Certificate) should be presented at the property's closing. This is to ensure that the new owner does not inherit the water and sewer bill from the previous owner.
Process
The buyer, seller, or real estate broker requests an application for a Certificate of Water and Sewer Charges (Lien Certificate) and a final water meter read. This request can be made by calling Needham Department of Public Works (DPW) (781-455-7550) or by emailing dpwadmin@needhamma.gov.
In most cases, a Lien Certificate can be obtained 2-3 business days after the final water meter reading.
