Lincoln, NE Water Use Rules: Leak Reporting Duty (2026)

When it is determined that there is a leak on a customer service pipe, it shall be the responsibility of the owner of the premises to have the leak repaired by a registered plumber. The leak must be repaired immediately, or as determined by the Director, upon notification by the Lincoln Water System. If the leak is not repaired immediately or as determined by the Director, the Lincoln Water System will cause the water service to be turned off and remain off until the water service has been repaired or replaced and inspected by the Lincoln Water System. Any costs associated with this turn off will be assessed against the premises owner's property and will cause a lien to be placed on the property. When it is determined that the water leak is causing damage, or is a hazard to the public, the Lincoln Water System will cause the service to be turned off immediately. All costs and damage associated with the leaking water service shall be assessed to the property and become a lien on the property. If after notification by the Lincoln Water System that a water leak may be on the customer supply pipe, curb stop, or customer service pipe and if after the owner of the premises has had their registered plumber make the necessary excavation, and the leak is found to be from a public main, the Lincoln Water System shall immediately repair such leak, backfill the excavation, and pay the cost of making the excavation.