If you don’t know what a water stop box is – or have never even heard of one – you are not alone. Many homeowners don’t know what a water stop box (also referred to as a curb stop) is, let alone where it is on their property. But the fact is, if you own a home, you probably own a water stop box as well, and like most other parts of your property, your water stop box may need to be maintained and repaired. In fact, the lack of proper maintenance for your water stop box could even lead to legal liability.
Your water stop box is a small round metal box located outside between the water main and your home or business. It is usually set into or very near the sidewalk. A cast-iron pipe is installed vertically underground and covered with a lid, which provides access to a water cut-off valve between MUD’s (Municipal Utilities District) water supply and your home. This is to provide water shut-off to your property in case of emergency.
You as the property owner are legally required to keep the top of your box flush with the sidewalk or ground. If your stop box is not kept flush with the ground, it creates a hazardous safety condition that opens you up to legal liability.
Signs your water stop box needs service
There are a couple of indicators that you may have an issue with your water stop box:
- If you notice water accumulate in or near your yard or sidewalk to form a sinkhole
- There is a water usage drop that affects your meter reading (monitored by MUD)
MUD can send someone to find out if your stop box or water line leaks, but once they have confirmed the issue is the stop box, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to fix it. Eyman Plumbing, Heating and Air can help you once MUD has determined the problem is the stop box. We can walk you through diagnosing what is wrong with your stop box and repairing the problem.
Potential repairs to your water stop box
Some water stop box issues that the homeowner may have to address include:
- Inoperative valve
- Valve too low or too high
- Housing bent so the key won’t go into valve
- Valve located under something like concrete and not readily accessible
- Rod unable to connect to valve
If you believe your water stop box needs repair or is not up to code, Eyman Heating, Plumbing and Air can help you correct any issues. Our plumbers are experts in city code, in how to maintain stop box health, and in how to treat our customers with respect.
If you suspect your stop box is in need of maintenance or repair, call Eyman today! We offer same day service and free estimates on all repairs and maintenance. Schedule Service or call (402) 731-2727 and the Big Red Truck will be on its way!