Water and Sewer Service Lines
Did you know?
Water and sewer service lines connect a homeowner’s property to the City’s water and wastewater systems. Homeowners are responsible for repairs to the portion of water and sewer service lines located on their property. If a leak, break, or clog occurs in the private portion of these lines, the homeowner is responsible for hiring a plumber or contractor and paying any of the associated repair costs. A breakdown to these lines could happen without warning resulting in an unexpected and costly emergency repair. The lifespan of a service line depends on many factors, including construction material, soil conditions and use and the location, number, and species of nearby trees.
While not typically covered by basic homeowners’ insurance, residents are encouraged to check with their current provider to find out what their coverage is in this area and to arm themselves with information such as deductible amounts and exclusions or confirm if coverage is offered as an add-on.
Residents may also consider coverage from an external service plan provider.
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Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC)
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The City of Niagara Falls has partnered with Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC), an independent company, to offer eligible homeowners optional repair plans which can help protect residents against potentially expensive emergency repairs to water/well service lines or well and sewer/septic lines on their private property. The partnership with SLWC provides a way to increase homeowners’ awareness of their responsibility for these costs while offering an optional solution for those who would like to participate.
Participation is optional and voluntary for homeowners. The program is solely managed by SLWC and uses no public funds. Residents will not be solicited in person or by phone. A homeowner who chooses to enroll in this program should do so with the knowledge that the City of Niagara Falls in no way warrants or is liable for the work or performance of SLWC.
Residents who choose to sign up for a plan have access to these benefits:
- A repair hotline is available 24/7, 365 days a year
- Pay $0 for covered repairs up to a benefit amount
- Repairs performed by an insured and licensed plumber
- One-year guarantee on covered repairs
Plans Available in the City of Niagara Falls:
- Exterior Water Service Line coverage - $6.00 per month + any applicable taxes
- Exterior Sewer/Septic Line coverage - $8.00 per month + any applicable taxes
- Interior Plumbing and Drainage Coverage - $9.00 per month + any applicable taxes
For more information:
Information on how to enroll with be available once the program launches in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is SLWC?
SLWC is an independent company separate from your local utility or community. SLWC is partnered with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), and plans are available in over 70 municipalities across Ontario.
Why did Niagara Falls partner with SLWC?
There are several benefits the voluntary SLWC program brings to Niagara Falls and its residents, including:
- Educating residential property owners about their responsibilities for the maintenance, repair and replacement of water service and sewer lines (portion from their homes to the property line) – at no cost to the City of Niagara Falls.
- Assuring the City of Niagara Falls that all repairs are performed to code and that all appropriate permitting is pulled.
- Reducing expenses to property owners and the City of Niagara Falls because the service plans encourage residents to report exterior water service and sewer/septic leaks in a timely manner. Timely exterior water service line repairs conserve water and reduce water loss for the City. Timely sewer/septic line repairs also minimize wastewater pollution, helping the environment.
- Resulting in fewer calls and involvement of City of Niagara Falls personnel regarding infrastructure that is the responsibility of property owners, saving overall taxpayers money.
Doesn't my homeowners' insurance already cover these repairs?
Typically, no. Most homeowners are surprised to learn that they are responsible for the repair and replacement of broken or leaking utility lines on their property. While most basic homeowners policies will pay to repair the damage created by failed utility lines, they typically do not cover the cost of the repair of the line itself. SLWC encourages residents to call their insurance company to determine their actual coverage.
Does this coverage include well lines?
Yes, coverage provides for repair or replacement of either water service or well lines, as well as septic lines.
Why does SLWC use the City of Niagara Falls logo in its marketing materials?
The City of Niagara Falls allows SLWC to use its logo in communications to indicate that there is a formal relationship in place and to let residents know that the offering is legitimate. It is for the residents’ benefit and has the approval of the City of Niagara Falls. All mailings SLWC sends to Niagara Falls residents are first reviewed and approved by City staff prior to use.
SLWC is committed to transparency in all its communications. All SLWC materials clearly state that the services the company offers are voluntary and that they are offered by SLWC, a private company that is separate from the City of Niagara Falls.
How can I stop getting mail from SLWC?
To be removed from future mailings, contact SLWC by calling 1-844-616-8444.
