Did you know?

Did you know the water service line connects your house to the water main?

The water main that brings treated drinking water to your neighborhood is either under the street or located under the right-of-way (berm) between the sidewalk and the street. Homes and businesses are connected to the water main by a service line. DWSD is responsible for the portion from the water main to the stop box (turn-on/off valve) in the front of the house or business. Property owners are responsible for the service line from the stop box to the water meter. DWSD is in the process of replacing lead service lines while on the street replacing the water main. Go to www.detroitmi.gov/dwsd and click on “Lead Service Line Verification” to verify if you have a lead service line.

Did you know property owners are responsible for the sewer service pipe from the point at which it leaves the house (beneath the basement) and connects to the City sewer?

Most of the City’s sewer pipes are located in the rear of the property; a few are located in the street. Sewers are typically in the alley or the easement in your backyard. The property owner is responsible for the sewer pipe from the drain inside the house or structure to the connection at the City’s sewer collection pipe, even if it’s past the property line. DWSD is responsible for the collection pipe that runs in the alley or street, serving each customer. DWSD recommends residents, especially those with trees in the backyard, hire a licensed plumber every spring to have the sewer line snaked all the way to the connection of the City sewer. Roots and other debris can clog the sewer line and cause basement backups.

This report is available on the City of Detroit website at

detroitmi.gov/2020waterqualityreport

We welcome your comments and opinions about this report. Please direct your comments or questions to the DWSD Public Affairs Group.