Water Department Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my February bill higher than the August Bill?

February's bill is based on water used from June through December.

How can I check my house for leaks?

Check the toilet for leaks by removing the top of the tank and listening very closely, If you hear any hissing at all try to locate where it is coming from. If you locate the area where the leak is coming from, assess it and determine if you can fix it. If you can't, then call a plumber. If nothing is noticeable, add some food coloring and put a couple of drops in the tank (not the bowl). Wait about thirty(30) minutes, if you have coloring in the bowl you have a leak in the flapper at the bottom of the tank that is allowing water to seep through. At this point you can see if you want to do the repair yourself, or call a plumber.

My water smells. What should I do?

Hot Water? Connect a garden hose to the spigot at the bottom of your hot water tank and drain it down and then let your tank refill.
Cold Water? You are able to flush out your own water service by using your outdoor spigots. It may take about thirty(30) minutes. If you have tried flushing your water service for over thirty (30) minutes and your water isn't any clearer contact the water department.

My water is brown. Is it safe?

Yes the water is safe but, you are able to flush your own water service by using your outdoor spigots. It may take about thrity (30) minutes. If you have tired flushing your water service for over thirty (30) minutes and your water isn't any clearer contact the water department.

Is the BWD a part of Digsafe?

No. Please contact Digsafe first (www.digsafe.com) and then contact the BWD with your digsafe number. Standard mark-out requests are three business days.

How Much Water Does the Average Home Use?

Estimates vary, but each person uses about 80-100 gallons of water per day. Other information is available at https://water.usgs.gov/edu/qa-home-percapita.html

Does Brewster have hard or soft water?

Brewster has soft water. The average is 25 mg/l

What do I do if I think my service is leaking in my yard?

The water department is open Monday through Friday 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. After hours and weekends the water department always has someone on call. Normal business hours please call 508-896-5454. After hours please call the Brewster Police Department at 508-896-7011.

Who is responsible for the repairs to my water service?

The water department is responsible for the water service from the water main to the curb stop. The water service after the curb stop to the house is the responsibility of the home owner. There is no charge to the owner if the leak is between the water main and the curb stop. If there is a leak after the curb stop to the house the homeowner must hire a town approved contractor for the repair.

*Please refer to the Applications, Forms, Reports and Document section of the water department website for further information.