STALLINGS, NC - It's a dilemma many families face; paying a utility bill just before service is scheduled to be cut. A Stallings family did that. Yet, their sewage provider still shut them off.

While Aqua North Carolina blames internal miscommunication, the family says it'll cost them $1000 to get their service back.

"Yeah, as a mom it's killing me," said Patricia Price, "and I think the only reason I haven't lost it is because I know I have to be strong for them."

About a week ago, the Price family got a notice on their door from Aqua North Carolina; pay your overdue sewage bill within 7 days or else service will be cut.

"I'm one person providing for my family of four," said Patricia. "We are pay check to pay check."

Patricia got paid on Saturday, and then on Sunday her husband Dale called the service provider to make a full payment.

But on Monday, the kids looked out the window and saw several guys digging in the yard. Even with a confirmation number in hand, Aqua contractors closed off the sewage line.

Photos taken by the Price's son show several workers digging out front.  The family pleaded with them to stop, even asking them to talk with the company.

"They refused to listen to me," said Dale, "were very rude, saying a lot of bad things to us."

The family called the North Carolina State Utilities Commission to file a complaint. While FOX Charlotte was at their home, an investigator told Mr. Price the company admitted to a system error. But, it still proceeded with the disconnect order anyway.

"The utilities commission is not going to do anything," said Dale, "and to look out for us."

Without sewer service, the Price family is unable to wash dishes or go to the bathroom. They're having to rely on their neighbors for help.

"My biggest thing is the health risk of my family right now," said Patricia. "I mean, my husband is sick, his immune system is already down."

That's because Dale Price is battling muscle cancer, and the reason why he can't work. It will cost them $1000 they don't have to get their sewage service back.

"Even though we followed all the information provided to us to the letter," said Dale.

FOX Charlotte reached out to Aqua North Carolina and the State Utilities Commission. But neither has returned phone calls.