We started renting for the first time in years in March & were advised by the agent that it's all different now & we are to pay all water usage not just excess as we did once upon a time several years ago. We got our first bill just a week ago & it's much like yours from the agent not the water company. However it does state what for, how much, tax invoice no. usual pymt days etc so it is still a bill. We obvioulsy have no probs paying as we were made aware.

I'm thinking someone has told the owners about recent changes & they want to go ahead with you guys paying water usage but obviously it's been dealt with the wrong way - there should have been an agreement or written notice to notify you of any changes.