(a) Where the Water Utility is unable to read a meter, the fact will be plainly indicated on the bill, and either an estimated bill will be computed or the minimum charge applied. The difference shall be adjusted when the meter is again read, that is, the bill for the succeeding billing period will be computed with the gallons or cubic feet in each block of the rate schedule doubled, and credit will be given on that bill for the amount of the bill paid the preceding period. Only in unusual cases shall more than three (3) consecutive estimated or minimum bills be rendered.
(b) If the meter is damaged (see Surreptitious Use of Water) or fails to operate, the bill will be based on the average use during the past year unless there is some reason why the use is not normal. If the average use cannot be properly determined, the bill will be estimated by some equitable method. (See PSC 185.33, Wis. Adm. Code.)