At SWM (Surinaamsche Waterleiding Maatschappij, Suriname’s water utility), you can ask questions about the water supply, meter and bill. A useful report makes clear where the problem is and since when it has been occurring. This guide helps you describe the situation and check payments without drawing your own conclusions about the cause.
In this guide
Reporting an outage to SWM in Suriname
The official SWM outage form distinguishes, among other things, between no water or low pressure, an unreadable meter, an unusual colour or taste, and leakage. The form asks for contact details and a description. Choose the category that best describes the problem.
- Note your address and connection number.
- Record when you first noticed the problem.
- Where it is safe to do so, check whether neighbours are experiencing the same thing.
- Describe what you see or notice, without presenting an unconfirmed cause as fact.
- Keep the report and any response from SWM.
A clear photo can help with visible leakage or a meter problem. Do not publish unnecessary personal data on social media.
Internal installation or connection?
In its outage information, SWM distinguishes between leakage after the water meter and problems at the meter or service line. In the case of a leak in the internal installation, the company refers customers to an installer or, in the case of tenants, to the landlord. Have the precise situation assessed if you do not know where the leak is.
Higher consumption may be a reason to have the installation checked, but in itself does not prove that there is a leak. First compare the billing period and meter readings, and ask for an explanation when the information does not match.
Checking your water bill
Compare the opening reading, closing reading, billing period and total amount with those on the previous bill. Check whether the bill includes an outstanding balance or other items. A dated photo of the meter may be useful when asking a question, but let SWM assess how it relates to the official reading.
According to SWM’s payment information, entering the full connection number is important for processing a payment correctly. Therefore, keep the proof of payment and check that the amount was credited to the correct connection.
Paid, but still an outstanding amount
Check the amount, date, account and payment reference on the proof of payment. Then ask the accounts receivable department whether the payment has already been processed and whether additional information is needed. Do not automatically pay again without first having the matter investigated.
For current contact details and office locations, use the SWM contact page. Costs, rates and deadlines may change. The bill and applicable terms for your period are therefore more important than an old news report.
Frequently asked questions
What if the water has a different colour or taste?
Report it to SWM and follow the instructions for your situation. This guide cannot determine whether the water is safe to drink.
Is low pressure always an outage outside my home?
No. The cause may vary. State whether the surrounding area is experiencing the same problem and have SWM or an installer assess the situation.
New reports about the water supply can be found in General news.
Related guides
- EBS in Suriname: power outages, load shedding and bills
- Land and housing in Suriname: applications and documents
View all guides about Suriname.
Sources and current information
Compiled on November 15, 2026. Source links are included with the relevant explanations. Amounts, opening hours, procedures and programmes may change. Before submitting an application, making a payment or visiting, check the latest information from the responsible organisation. A historical report is identified on this page by the period mentioned.
This guide is general background information from Key News. Do you have a factual correction or a new official source? Submit it via the contact page, including the link to this guide. Also read our editorial and corrections policy.
