Customers must promptly report water main breaks, hydrant leaks, and meter leaks to the Sewerage and Water Board through 311 or the SWB customer service line. Leaks on the customer side of the meter are the property owner's repair responsibility.
The SWB operates the public water mains, hydrants, and the meter itself. Leaks upstream of the meter, including main breaks and hydrant failures, are SWB's responsibility and should be reported through nola311 or the SWB customer service hotline. Leaks downstream of the meter, including service lines from meter to building and all internal plumbing, are the property owner's repair obligation under SWB's customer service rules. The Board offers limited leak adjustment credits when a hidden leak causes a sudden bill spike and the customer documents prompt repair. Sewer backups should also be reported promptly so SWB can respond before damage spreads.
Failing to repair a confirmed leak on the customer side after notice can lead to water shut-off, lien for emergency repair costs, and recovery of consumption charges. Tampering with a meter or hydrant carries criminal penalties under state law.
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See how New Orleans's leak reporting duty rules stack up against other locations.
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