Residents in Greeley may have recently received information about water and sewer line insurance. It is common for residents to be alarmed with the official looking notice that the City is “no longer covering their water and sewer pipes.” Although official looking, this is not a notice from the City of Greeley.
For the water service line, the Water and Sewer Department is responsible for maintaining the service line from the water main to the street side of the curb stop. The curb stop is approximately at the street curb near the property line. Any work that needs to be done from the curb stop onto the property is the homeowner’s responsibility. It has always been like this; this is not a change. The City of Greeley is not associated with these companies. They are a private entity that mass promotes their service to the Greeley area by mail and email.
The services described in these mailings are similar to other types of insurance. It is up to the individual consumer to determine if the services are something that is needed or wanted. Just as a consumer would assess the risk to their health, life, home, or automobile; the decision to do business with the companies is based on the risk they wish to carry on their property’s water and sewer pipes.
There are many legitimate businesses who offer repair plans. Check with the Better Business Bureau, before doing business with any company. Some homeowner's insurance plans may cover some types of repairs. Confirm coverage with your insurance agent to see if you are already covered. Renters should discuss lease terms pertaining to this subject with their landlords. Consumers with these questions should call these businesses directly.