The Problem

When a service pipe leaks, it is essential that it be fixed promptly and correctly. The results of a water service pipe leak can be destructive as well as pose health risks. BWSC refers to a water service pipe leak that occurs on private property, which is the owner's responsibility to repair, as a leak up to owner, or LUTO.

The Program

Under the New LUTO Program eligible residential property owners can contract BWSC to have a water service pipe leak on their property repaired at a reasonable cost. BWSC recommends property owners obtain price quotes from private contractors before hiring BWSC or another contractor. BWSC will allow property owners to pay the cost of the work in one payment or in twelve equal installments incorporated into their water and sewer bill if BWSC is contracted 
to perform the repair.

Benefits

Eligible property owners who participate in 
the LUTO program will have their water service pipe repaired by BWSC at a reasonable cost and enjoy the option of spreading the payments out in 12 installments.

Eligibility

A property owner is eligible to participate in the LUTO Program if all of the following conditions are met:

l	property is a one to three family building;
l	property is served by a two inch or smaller water service pipe;
l	water and sewer account for property is current;
l	repair of the LUTO presents no extraordinary physical or other obstacles.*

Regulations

BWSC's Billing, Termination and Appeal regulations state that a customer who has a leak on his or her water service pipe, or LUTO, has 11 days in which to repair it or the water service will be terminated. In the case of customer plumbing emergencies such as severe icing, immediate damage to property or extreme loss of water, BWSC reserves the right to terminate service immediately. 

Participation in the LUTO program allows property owners to have repairs completed quickly and efficiently by BWSC, thereby reducing the amount of time a home may be out of water service.

Follow-up

Whether the property owner participates in the LUTO Program or not, BWSC will inspect the completed repair, take a meter reading, tag and seal the meter, and install a remote meter reading device at no cost to the property owner.

How to Apply

To apply for the Leak Up to Owner (LUTO) Program, or if you would like more information, contact BWSC's Operations Supervisor at 
(617) 989-7000.For other information regarding services provided by BWSC please contact the Community Services Department at (617) 989-7000.