A common question we receive is "Who fixes a leak on my water/sewer line?" The answer varies based on a few factors. Please read through the explanation provided here to clarify when Pittsburgh Water will make repairs and when the property owner will need to call a plumber.
For information on optional plans for residential customers to protect your privately owned water and sewer lines, visit our Service Line Protection Programs page.
Water Infrastructure
A water service line runs between Pittsburgh Water's water main in the street and the water meter located outside or inside of a structure. Each water service line includes a curb box that encases the valve to turn off water flow to the structure. It is typically located in the sidewalk.
For residential customers, the portion of the water service line from the main to, and including, the curb box is the responsibility of Pittsburgh Water. The portion between the curb box and the water meter is the responsibility of the property owner.
For commercial property owners, Pittsburgh Water retains responsibility for the portion from the main to the curb box for water service lines that are two inches in diameter or less. For larger service lines, commercial property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the entire water service line from the water main to the water meter.
Sewer Infrastructure
A sewer lateral runs from the Pittsburgh Water sewer main to your internal plumbing. The entire sewer lateral is the responsibility of both residential and commercial property owners. Pittsburgh Water maintains the sewer main and a small portion at the joint, which is known as a wye.