Overview

• A Rio de Janeiro judge prohibited Águas do Rio from charging new customers for debts of prior occupants, annulled related debt-confession accords, and ordered double refunds, with a R$20,000 fine per violation for noncompliance.
• The state environmental prosecutor’s office opened a civil inquiry to assess environmental damage and consumer-rights violations tied to the so‑called sewer plugs, giving Águas do Rio 30 days to submit technical evidence and a photographic report.
• State regulator Agenersa confirmed three blockages during Oct. 2–3 inspections in Centro and Barra da Tijuca, deemed the practice impermissible when it poses health or environmental risks, and said it will open proceedings to apply penalties.
• The Environmental Protection Police (DPMA) launched a criminal inquiry this week into blocked sewage outlets at commercial and residential properties in the city.
• Águas do Rio says service interruption for nonpayment is allowed and disputes responsibility for internal systems, while Iguá reported removing a blockage after regulator guidance as some condominiums contest charges in court and deposit disputed sums.