Water Leaks on Private Property

It is the responsibility of the homeowner or their contractor to maintain the water line from the District’s service connection to the residence. The owner is also responsible for understanding and abiding by VAID’s Bylaws and Policies. These are available on the VAID website or at the office.

You own the water pipe from your home up to the shut-off valve (usually at your property line).

We own the shut-off valve.

The responsibility for a leak on private residential property can be determined by a pressure reading where the water enters your house while no water is being used. If the pressure drops, this shows there is a leak on your property.

We do not trace private water pipes on public or private property. Unlike other utilities, we do not own these pipes. They have been installed by private contractors.

If there is a leak in your water pipe….

You are responsible for:

• arranging for a qualified person to make any necessary repairs.
• ensuring repairs meet industry standards.*
• paying for the repairs and water turn off/on fees.

Your contractor will be responsible for:

• getting clearances from utility companies (e.g., BC Hydro) before you dig
• repairing the leak to industry standards*
• arranging for VAID to inspect the repair and turn the water back on.

VAID is responsible for:

• turning off the water so that the repair can be made
• inspection of the repair and water line
• turning the water back on after repair has been completed.

We will turn off the water if the leak becomes a risk to:

• the water supply system
• public safety
• private or public property.

While your water is off during the repair, we recommend that you:

• keep your taps closed to prevent flooding when your water is turned on
• turn off electrically operated hot water tanks to prevent damage.

* Industry Standards: The service pipe on your property must be municipal grade tubing of HDPE rated 160 psi with compression fittings rated 200 psi. These parts are available from VAID at wholesale cost.

Bylaw 169, the Water Distribution Regulation By-law, in paragraph 18 states that:

The property owner shall be responsible for all service pipes and plumbing systems from the outlet of the District’s curb stop or standard waterworks valve at their property line including:

a) safekeeping, maintenance, and repair

b) protection from frost or other damage

c) prompt repair of frozen, leaky, or imperfect pipes or fixtures

d) all water used on their property.

VAID’s Bylaw 169, the Water Distribution Regulation By-law

If you have any questions, contact our office at 604-486-7035