What would happen if a utility company did not take any action?
Pretty amazing. I wonder if they dont know the building was using water, like when someone moved into a building where the water had been shut off, cuts a lock or seal, and starts using water unofficially. The user would be liable for all usage since the last official reading. If the user just ran pipe from the water supply to the building there could be fines and an estimated bill. I doubt a utility would just forget one of the active meters.