Questions about water main replacement

So we have a slow but certain leak into the basement of our brownstone. A few plumbers have come to take a look, and while they feel it is coming form the main, they are sure if it is a city issue, or something we would be responsible for. Should I call the DEP? Any suggestions? Am hoping the city will help pay for this…eeks. Thanks!!

greencat

in General Discussion 9 years and 10 months ago

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Guest User | 9 years and 10 months ago

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Call DEP for them to come out and inspect. They will issue a 3 day notice if the break is on your side of the main so be prepared to act quick (or you’ll end up like Bob Marvin). Balkan is the best.

Arkady | 9 years and 10 months ago

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A neighbor of mine was very happy with Main Man.

BobMarvin | 9 years and 10 months ago

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I had my lead water main replaced nearly 20 years ago, so my information may not be up to date. The replacement was our responsibility. Furthermore, since my neighbor called DEP (thinking his main was the one leaking) the City shut off my water AND charged me $500 for digging up the main and filling it in again (even though the plumber had to dig it up the next day). They were nice enough to show me how I could temporarily get water, by hooking my neighbor’s hose up to mine. Good thing it was summer.

FWIW I used Figliolia, who did a fine job the next day. They and Harris seem to be among the “standard” plumbers for water mains and sewers.

kurtwest | 9 years and 10 months ago

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I am all too familiar with this issue. I had a very similar issue not too long ago and was hoping that the city would assume responsibility. Unbeknownst to us, the property owner is responsible for the entire water pipe to the street. We ended up having to replace the old lead water pipe with copper. We used Harris Water for the replacement, they were very fair and seem to be the primary company in Brooklyn. I have referred them to other friends/family since and everyone seems to be happy with their service

CarmenR | 9 years and 10 months ago

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If it’s leaking anywhere that it comes off of the main pipe and into your property, I believe that is your responsibility. If the giant main pipe has the problem, I imagine the city would chip in for that but I would also assume that your neighbors would also be experiencing leaks if that were the case?