Map the responsibility boundary
Map the responsibility boundary
- Record where water appears and whether it changes with building use or a private shutoff.
- Note the meter location, service entry, nearby excavation, street work, weather and sounds.
- Do not dig, tamper with the meter, or operate street-side controls to test the source.
- Check with BWSC when the public service or program path may be involved, and ask a licensed plumber about private plumbing assessment.
Why ownership matters
Why ownership matters
BWSC calls a private service-pipe leak a Leak Up To Owner and describes a distinct program path. Indoor leakage, the utility meter, the public main and the private lateral are separate responsibilities. Water surfacing outside or entering a basement still needs investigation before ownership is assigned.
Questions for the correct owner
Questions for the correct owner
- What observation places the suspected leak upstream or downstream of the meter?
- Who owns excavation, utility marking, permits, paving, masonry and landscape restoration?
- Does BWSC need to inspect or witness any portion before it is covered?
- If a program is discussed, what eligibility and price-comparison steps apply now?
Next notices
Continue with the related decision
Independent connection
Call for plumbing help
Describe the observable condition first. Confirm who answered, Boston 02108 coverage, the responsible licensee, availability, price, permit duty, and terms before authorizing work.