ARTICLE XI - BILLS AND PAYMENT
Section 7: Water Leak Allowance Policy
In accordance with the DCDBA’s longstanding policy, you may be eligible for a sewer bill adjustment due to a water leak under the following conditions:
Eligibility Criteria:
1. The leak occurred on the underground water service line outside the structure and the water did not enter the sanitary sewer system.
2. The water meter is not located inside the structure.
3. The leak has been repaired, and you have documented proof, including:
a. A report from a licensed plumber confirming the leak and that it has been repaired.
b. A receipt for the repairs or materials.
c. Photographs showing the excavation and repair of the water service line.
4. You must be the property owner.
If you completed the repair yourself, you must still provide clear documentation of the leak and repair.
a. A licensed plumber’s inspection report confirming the leak is fully repaired and no further leaks are present.
b. Receipts for materials used.
c. Photographs showing the excavation and repair of the water service line.
How the Allowance Is Calculated:
1. The allowance is based on excess usage above your normal average consumption, calculated over a 12-month period.
2. We will consider for allowance leaks that occur over up to two billing periods based on actual water meter readings
3. If there is no prior usage history for the property, the average will be calculated after the leak is repaired and one year of usage has been recorded.
a. All related invoices must be paid, and the allowance will be applied as a credit to your account after the one-year period.
Exclusions:
1. Leaks caused by indoor plumbing failures (e.g., toilets, water heaters, heating systems, or other indoor fixtures) or above-ground outdoor water taps are not eligible.
2. No allowance will be granted in cases of negligence, including:
a. Failure to replace deteriorated service lines.
b. Failure to make timely repairs after notification of a possible leak by your water service provider.
c. Poor workmanship or faulty construction.
d. Vandalism or unrepaired leaks.
3. Plumber's fees and repair costs are not covered by the Water Leak Allowance.
4. Only one allowance per property is permitted within a five-year period under the same ownership.
5. Allowances for pools, spas, and irrigation systems or other outside water usage are not covered by this policy. (See the DCDBA Rules and Regulations, Article XI, Section 3: Subtraction/Deduction Meters)
To Apply:
Please contact the Authority office and provide the following:
1. Your sewer account number and service address.
2. A current water meter reading.
3. Documentation of the leak and repairs, such as:
a. Plumber’s report and invoice.
b. Date the leak began (if known)
c. Date the leak was repaired.
d. Receipts for repair materials.
e. Photographs of the leak site before and after repair.