When any water consumer makes a complaint that the bill for any particular period is excessive, the city water department will, upon request, have such meter reread and the service inspected for leaks. Should such consumer then desire that the meter be tested or changed, a deposit as set by council resolution to cover the cost of making such change or test shall be paid. The testing deposit will be refunded in the event that testing indicates a metering error exceeding three percent in favor of the city. Should the meter on test show a registration in excess of three percent in favor of the city or citizen, the excess registration of the last reading shall be credited or debited to the account. Except as otherwise provided in this section, all or a portion of the amount deposited may be retained by city to cover the expense of such change or test.