“Why is my neighborhood experiencing so many broken water mains?” A common question, which was recently posed by a Park Slope homeowner after three houses on his street had their water mains replaced. Mr. Knobloch was confused after he was issued with a 3 day summons for his water main leaking in the roadway. Like many other Brooklyn homeowners, he assumed that the city was responsible for all broken pipes that fall outside of his property.
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Owner assumed responsibility for water main break |
Owners actual responsibility for water main break |
Mr. Knobloch decided to investigate why his neighborhood, and Brooklyn as a whole was experiencing so many leaking water mains.
He first became aware that many of the homes were built with lead water mains which tend to break over time and must be replaced with “k” grade copper pipes. He also found that lead water mains have been coming up in many home inspections and have a tendency to delay the sales process.
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Old lead pipe |
Old lead pipe |
In his research he also became aware that many homeowners that are expecting a new born are taking a precautionary measure and have the existing lead water line replaced with new copper.
Another common occurrence he became aware of was a change in temperature, causing the underground water lines to shift and break. It works both ways, when we are in warm weather and heading into the winter months, as well as when we are entering the warmer weather, from the winter. In both cases the ground starts to shift which may cause a cracked pipe on older water lines. The pipes itself will expand and contract which will also weaken the pipe, potentially leading to a sub-surface water line break.
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Digging for a broken water main |
The digging continues |
The final most common reason for broken water lines is due to damage caused by other utility contractors. Mr. Knobloch’s research revealed that almost 10% of broken water mains throughout Brooklyn have had another utility contractor working in front of their house within a three week period. It is possible that the other contractor did not actually come in contact with the broken pipe and the excavation in the surrounding area caused the ground to shift, resulting in a broken water line. For this reason it is not always easy to put the blame on the other contractor, and the homeowner may end up having to assume the replacement cost in full.
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Utility contractor leaves homeowner like this |
Water is pumped out and cracked pipe is verified |
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Making the repair |
Repair is completed! |
How to avoid a broken water line
It is always suggested to take a proactive stance if you have a lead water line, and replace it with copper. In most cases you will avoid the cost associated with working on an emergency basis, as well as the possibility of water damage to your property.
It is also a good idea to document any utility work taking place in front of your home. You can ask the contractor for a copy of his permit or his permit number at a minimum. The permit number coupled with pictures of the work taking place will always assist in the event of a broken water line.
The final suggestion is to make sure that you hire a reputable company when having a new water main installed. There are many companies that will issue “low-ball” quotes and use sub-par fittings, inexperienced workers and work without permits to cut their cost. It is always suggested to check a company’s online reviews, check the BBB rating and make sure they have a valid license with the Department of Buildings.
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