Map the responsibility boundary
Map the responsibility boundary
- Fixture stop: may isolate a toilet, faucet, or appliance when its function is known.
- Branch or unit control: may affect more than the room where it is located.
- Building main: requires owner or management coordination and an occupancy plan.
- Meter and street service: involve BWSC ownership or assistance and should not be altered casually.
Why ownership matters
Why ownership matters
A labeled, operable private control can limit damage. An unidentified, seized, shared, or utility-owned component can widen the outage or break when forced. In a multi-unit property, confirm authorization and notify affected occupants before a planned building shutdown. BWSC says its meter belongs to the Commission while surrounding pipes and valves belong to the property owner.
Questions for the correct owner
Questions for the correct owner
- Is the handle labeled and visibly connected to the affected line?
- Does anyone rely on water in another unit, kitchen, clinic, or business?
- Will closing the control create a drain-down, restart, or inspection requirement?
- Who owns the control and who can approve its operation?
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.