News Release
ROCHESTER — Commonwealth Engineers, Inc., a leading provider of water resource engineering, will be assisting the city of Rochester in a lead inspection program for water service lines.
In response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s requirement to ensure all water service lines are free of any lead material, Rochester is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The initiative involves locating and inspecting water service lines in high-risk areas to identify the presence of lead, safeguarding communities against potential health hazards.
Key components of the inspection program include:
- Locating meter pits and curb stops.
- Identifying routing from pit to main and pit to your home.
To facilitate these inspections, Commonwealth Engineers, Inc. will require access to residential properties. Specifically, homeowners are requested to allow access to inspect the water service line entry point and assess the material and plumbing layout. This is essential for the planned replacement of the water service supply line from meter into home up to and including the existing shut-off valve or similar components, ensuring the integrity and safety of the water distribution system.
This project will allow Rochester to apply for grant funding for service line improvement work and providing qualifying homeowners with free replacement of their service lines from the meter pit/curb stop to shut off valve (in their home).
The service line from the meter into the home is owned by the homeowner. Without taking advantage of programs such as this, the homeowner runs the risk of being liable for the full cost of a future replacement. It is encouraged that everyone take maximum advantage of this program while the funding and opportunity are available.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community’s water supply,” said Rochester Water Department Superintendent Derrick Holloway. “By proactively inspecting water service lines for lead, we aim to mitigate potential risks and protect public health.”
Homeowners, who will be asked to schedule their inspections, will receive a notice on their front door with contact information and instructions on scheduling. Inspections may be scheduled by visiting commonwealthengineer.com.
For more information, contact Holloway at (574) 223-3412 or email [email protected].
