Farmington DPW: Use Caution Before Buying Water Line Insurance

The official-looking letters come from private companies and encourage residents to insure the water line between their homes and the city's water main against breaks and damage. 

Public Works director Kevin Gushman stopped just short of calling them a scam, but he did urge residents who receive a letter to think twice before signing up. 

"My advice has generally been to contact us to see if it's a good deal," Gushman said at Monday night's city council meeting. He addressed the issue in response to council member JoAnne McShane's question about a letter a resident showed her. 

While residents are responsible if their water line breaks, city manager Vince Pastue said, "We have very, very, very few problems with leads coming from water mains to the homes." He added there are more problems with sewer lines. 

McShane said she was concerned because the letter was presented as though the city was offering the insurance. 

"We'll be able to scrutinize that better for people," Gushman said. "We'd be more than happy to explain what it is."  

The DPW can be reached at 248-473-7250.