Milwaukee Water Works requires customers to promptly report visible leaks, water main breaks, and suspected lead service line damage, while the city continues full lead service line replacement under state and federal mandates.
MWW operates a 24-hour leak hotline and online portal for reporting main breaks, hydrant problems, and customer-side leaks. Customers are responsible for the private side of the service line; MWW maintains the public side and the meter. The city is replacing all known lead service lines on an accelerated schedule, currently funded through ARPA, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds, and PSC-approved rate components. Wisconsin Public Service Commission rules govern cost allocation. Suspected lead pipe disturbance during plumbing work must be reported because it can spike lead levels and triggers a flushing protocol.
Failing to report a known leak that wastes water or undermines pavement can lead to repair charges, restoration costs, and citations; tampering with water mains is a separate criminal offense.
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Milwaukee, WI
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