Frozen, Leaky, or Malfunctioning Pipes & What To Do

When the outside air temperature dips below freezing some Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility ratepayers will experience leaks resulting from frozen water pipes and other circumstances. The purpose of this policy is to explain the procedure for reporting a leak and requesting a bill adjustment in accordance with the Seaside Heights Borough Code.

1. Procedure for reporting known or observable leaks:
   During the Borough's regular business hours (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excepting holidays) report the leak immediately to Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility personnel by calling 732-793-9100. Outside regular business hours and on weekends or holidays, report the leak immediately by calling the Police Department's non-emergency telephone number: 732-793- 1800. Provide your name, property address where the leak is occurring, and a phone number where you can be contacted.
2. Do not initiate any repairs until the leak has been personally verified by a Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility employee. You will be ineligible for a bill adjustment if you repair the leak before a Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility employee verifies the leak.
3. Procedure for reporting suspected leaks based on your monthly bill:
   If you suspect a leak based on a review of your monthly bill you must report the suspected leak within 21 days from the bill date. Report the suspected leak by calling the Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility at 732-793-9100 during the Borough's regular business hours (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excepting holidays). Provide your name, property address where the leak is occurring, and a phone number where you can be contacted.
   
   • You will be ineligible for a bill adjustment if you repair the leak before a Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility employee verifies the leak or if you fail to report the suspected leak within 21 days from the bill date.
4. After the Seaside Heights Water/Sewer Utility employee verifies the leak and determines that you are eligible for a bill credit, you will be advised in writing how to apply for a bill adjustment. Please note that there are a number of reasons for which you will be ineligible for a bill adjustment. For example, you will not be eligible for a bill adjustment for water loss resulting from a leaking toilet or shower or due to your plumber's or contractor's negligence. In addition, your bill adjustment request will be denied if your account is more than 60 days past due.
5. To avoid high bills and possible damage, it would be in your best interest to develop a routine leak inspection schedule as part of your regular housekeeping and maintenance practices. Also, you should carefully review your water bill for any unusual water usage that may be indicative of a leak.