What is a Water Main Leak?
A water main is a sizable underground conduit that transports drinking water to establishments like homes and businesses. Typically, concrete, metal, or plastic are used to make water mains. They move water from springs, rivers, and lakes to the locations where it is distributed in private, public, and commercial settings. To satisfy the needs of their populations, some towns combine a variety of water main types.
When It Is Your County’s Responsibility
You might have meters in your front yard that track how much water you use. From these meters to the water main, which is often located underneath the roadway, a pipe runs. You are connected to the main line by a service pipe, which supplies water to your house.
The county is often liable for leaks that happen between the meters and the water main. The only exception to this rule would be if you neglected to maintain the area around the meters, which are essential to ensuring that you have access to water and must always be visible to the county.
When It Becomes Your Responsibility
The water service lines that pass through your front yard belong to you as a homeowner. The lines that connect the meters to your house are therefore under your care. If there is a leak in your yard, you are most likely responsible for fixing it and will need to hire a licensed plumber to fix the problem.
Pools of water on the ground, sinkholes, filthy water in your home, or an unusually high water bill are indications that you have a leak in your yard. If you suspect a leak, stop the water supply at the main and call a plumber as soon as you can. Letting a leak continue can result in harm to your house or the house and possessions of your neighbor.
What You Can Do to Prevent Water Main Issues
Fortunately, there are precautions you may do to lessen the possibility of water main issues.
- Consistently check your property for any indications of a water main problem, such as puddles of water or soggy ground near pipes. Call a qualified plumber right once if you see anything fishy.
- Be sure to perform routine maintenance and servicing on all of your plumbing equipment. This will lessen the possibility of a water main breaking due to corrosion or pipe wear and strain.
- Install backflow preventers in your house to keep contaminated water from getting into your drinking water supply.
- Check that all relevant permits are in order and that the contractor is aware of any local laws pertaining to water main lines if you are planning any restorations or building work.
- Check to see if any irrigation, drainage, or water mains are harmed or interfered with by your landscaping.
- Hire a qualified plumber to evaluate the plumbing system in your home at least once a year, and have any repairs done right away.
You can lessen your home’s likelihood of experiencing water main issues by keeping in mind these suggestions. If there is an issue with your water main, you should move immediately and get in touch with a licensed plumber right away. By doing this, you may ensure that the harm is kept to a minimum and the issue is handled swiftly.
Experts Can Assist In Maintaining Your Water Lines
It’s crucial to consult a professional if you believe your water pipes may need to be repaired. Since 1992, Elizabeth Drain Service has provided assistance to homes in Elizabeth. Call us right away at (908) 988-0365 to arrange for us to inspect your pipes.
