Who is Responsible for Water and Sewer Service Lines?

Service Pipelines Are Private Property

Many property owners are unaware that they own the pipes—called private service lines or laterals—that bring water into their homes and carry wastewater away. If service pipelines clog, leak or break, it is the property owner’s responsibility to contact a plumber and pay for repairs. CWSD is responsible for maintaining the public parts of the water and wastewater systems, including the larger “main” pipelines.

Where does ownership divide along water and sewer service pipelines? It’s not at the property line or the curb, as many people assume.

• Water: The property owner is responsible for the service pipeline between the house and the water meter, which is usually located in the front yard, close to the sidewalk. CWSD is responsible for the pipe between the meter and the public supply line (main) and for the meter (unless a customer tampers with the meter and breaks it).
• Sewer: The property owner is responsible for the service pipeline between the house and the sewer main or sewer manhole. CWSD is responsible for the sewer main that carries the wastewater from individual residences to the plant for treatment. 

If a Service Line Needs Repairs

Please call us if you suspect a service pipeline problem is our responsibility or if you’re unsure.

• (318) 742-9748

We will assess the problem and determine if the problem is CWSD or the property owner’s responsibility. 

ALWAYS call us if water needs to be turned off at the meter. Please do not shut off your water at the meter box or tamper with the meter. If you (or your designee) damage the meter or other District equipment, you will be billed for the cost of repairs or replacement, which can be $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the damage.  There is normally a shut off valve at the home for shutting off water to the house.