Water Leaks on Private Property
Leaks on private property can cause significant water loss and higher treatment costs for everyone. To keep our system reliable and affordable, it’s important that property owners understand their responsibilities and take action when leaks occur. VAID bylaws require homeowners to maintain the water line from the District’s service connection to the residence and ensure repairs meet industry standards.
If you suspect a leak, please act promptly—every drop counts toward protecting our shared water supply.
It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain the water line from VAID’s shut off valve 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.
The water service line is divided into two sections:
- Public section – from the water main to the shut-off valve (owned by VAID)
- Private section – from the shut-off valve to the home (owned by the property owner)
You are responsible for the private section of the service line, which begins at the shut-off valve (typically located in a meter box near your property line) and runs to your home.
VAID owns and maintains the shut-off valve and water meter.
VAID does not trace private water lines on public or private property. The portion of the service line beyond the shut-off valve is privately owned and is the responsibility of the property owner.
If there is a leak in your water line….
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.
* 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 materials are available from VAID at wholesale cost.
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.
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