Water Main Break & Temporary Water Shut-Off Information

Frequently Asked Questions about Water Mains and Repairs

Why does the City have to shut-off the water to make repairs?

Often, the flow of water through a water main must be stopped to perform repairs. While making repairs, the City makes every effort to minimize the number of customers impacted by a shut-down. It will perform repairs as quickly as possible to restore service to the City’s affected customers.

There is a water main break in my area, and I still have water, what should I do? 

Whenever you are notified of a water main break in your area, customers are encouraged to minimize their water use. It is not uncommon to experience water discoloration or air bubbles/pockets in your home. These experiences generally are not cause for concern, but they may seem troubling. Minimizing your water use during a water main break will not only limit discolored water and air bubbles/pockets from entering your plumbing, but it will also ensure water is available to those who truly need it.

Why is my water discolored during or following a water main repair? 

Water discoloration experienced during a water main break often results from mineral deposits on the inside of a water main or water service, also known as tuberculation, becoming freed from the pipe wall and traveling with the drinking water into your home or business. Generally, these particles are naturally-occurring in drinking water and are a nuisance but not harmful. To minimize inconveniences to you such as laundry discoloration, stained or clogged plumbing fixtures, or worries about your residence and those that reside there, please reduce your water usage until the water main repair is complete.

I am experiencing a problem I believe is due to a water main break.  Who can I contact?

Please call the Water Division at 508-532-6050 for assistance. The Division is available 24-hours a day for emergency service.

If you are unable to reach a live person by calling the above number, please call the Police or Fire non-emergency telephone line at 508-872-1212 or 508-532-5930.

Instructions for Residents and Businesses Once Their Water Is Restored or if they are Experiencing Discolored Water

When a water main is placed back into service after repairs are made, residents/businesses will sometimes experience water discoloration or spitting water from their fixtures. 

Discolored water is not harmful and will clear by running your faucet on cold water only at the lowest easily accessible point in your home until the water runs clear.  

If you experience further issues, please call the Water Division at 508-532-6050 for assistance.