How to Connect to Public Water in Howard County, Maryland
Introduction:
A robust water connection is essential for Howard County residents, businesses, and industries. It provides access to clean, safe drinking water, supports economic growth, and protects public health and safety. By understanding the water connection process, new residents and businesses can avoid delays and ensure that they have access to a reliable water supply as soon as possible.
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Starting with the Basics:
Why Connect to Public Water?
Public water sources in Howard County are highly reliable and offer several benefits to residents and businesses. In 2022, Howard County's public water system met or exceeded all state and federal drinking water standards. The county's public water system also has a very good track record of reliability
There are several benefits to connecting to public water in Howard County. Some of the key benefits include:
- Convenience:
- Affordability
- Quality
- Reliability
Clarifying Responsibilities:
Homeowner responsibilities:
- Pay the water connection fee
- Provide access to the property for the water connection
- Maintain the water connection on their property
- Pay the water bill
County responsibilities:
- Provide a reliable water supply to residents and businesses
- Maintain the water infrastructure
- Test the water quality regularly
- Respond to water emergencies
The Water Connection Process in Howard County:
Locating Your Property's Water Access Point:
Here are some tips tailored to Howard County residences on finding the water supply line, or water access point, for your property:
- Start at the water meter
- Check the basement or crawlspace
- Check the garage
- Pay the water bill
- Check the exterior of the house
- Contact the Howard County Department of Public Works
Additional tips:
- Look for shutoff valves. Shutoff valves are located on the water supply line. Shutoff valves can be used to turn off the water supply to the house.
- If you have a well, the water access point will be the well itself. The well is typically located in the yard, away from the house.
- If you are unsure where the water access point is for your property, it is best to contact a licensed plumber
Selecting the Ideal Service Provider:
Seadmok is a utility contractor located in Howard County, MD. Our mission is to improve the functionality of water and sewer distribution systems. Seadmok Water is committed to providing high-quality water and wastewater services to residents and businesses in Howard County. Seadmok Water is also committed to protecting the environment and conserving water resources.
Installation Procedures:
To establish a new water connection in Howard County, you will need to follow these steps:
- Apply for a water connection.
- Pay the water connection fee.
- Schedule a water connection appointment.
- Have the water connection inspected.
- Turn on the water.
Water Taps and Meters in Howard County:
Here are some country-specific requirements or standards for water taps and meters in Howard County, Maryland:
Water taps:
- All water taps must be lead-free.
- All water taps must be installed by a licensed plumber.
- Water taps must be inspected by a Howard County inspector before the water service can be turned on.
Water meters:
- All water meters must be installed by a Howard County rep .
- Water meters must be inspected by a Howard County inspector before the water service can be turned on.
- Water meters must be read every two months.
- Water meters must be replaced every 10 years.
The Crucial Step of Permit Pulling:
Understanding Permit Significance:
Permits are crucial for several reasons, especially in Howard County:
- Safety
- Code Compliance
- Environmental protection
- Quality assurance
Who's Authorized to Pull Permits
Only licensed contractors, like Seadmok Water, can officially pull permits for water connections. This is because permits require that the work be done by qualified professionals who follow all applicable codes and regulations.
Permit Pulling Locations in Howard County:
Ellicott City:
- Office or department: Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits
- Address: 3430 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Columbia:
- Address: 3430 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Clarksville:
- Where: Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits (Ellicott City office)
- How: You can submit a permit application online or visit the Ellicott City office in person.
Fulton:
- Permit pulling process: The permit pulling process in Fulton is the same as the process in other parts of Howard County. You can submit a permit application online or visit the Ellicott City office in person.
Laurel:
- Local guidelines or links for permits: You can find information on permit requirements and the permit application process on the Howard County website: Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits: https://www.howardcountymd.gov/inspections-licenses-permits
Handy Tips and Local Recommendations
Government Resources:
Pipe Material Suited for Howard County:
The best pipe material for Howard County depends on several factors, including the type of water being transported, the ground conditions, and the budget. However, some of the most common and well-suited pipe materials for Howard County include:
- Copper
- PVC
- CPVC
- PEX
Understanding Local Water Line Sizes:
- 1/2 inch: This is the smallest common water line size and is typically used for faucets, sinks, and toilets.
- 3/4 inch: This is a medium-sized water line size and is typically used for dishwashers, washing machines, and sprinkler systems.
- 1 inch: This is a large water line size and is typically used for water heaters and boilers.
- 1.5 inch: This is a very large water line size and is typically used for commercial applications.
Safe Burying of Water Lines in Howard County:
The Howard County Department of Public Works recommends that water lines be buried at a depth of at least 36 inches. This depth is necessary to protect the water line from freezing and damage caused by traffic or other activities.
Budgeting and Financing:
Anticipated Costs in Howard County:
The anticipated cost of installing a new water line in Howard County, Maryland, ranges from $50 to $150 per linear foot. This range includes the cost of both labor and materials.
The specific cost will depend on several factors, including:
- The length of the water line
- The type of pipe material used
- The depth at which the water line needs to be buried
- The difficulty of the installation
Local Financial Assistance:
The Howard County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) offers several financial assistance programs for homeowners, including the following:
- ReinventRenovateRestore (RRR) Program
- Home Improvement Loan Program
- Water and Sewer Authority Assistance Program
Conclusion
Seadmok Water is a comprehensive water utility company that provides a wide range of services to residents and businesses in Howard County, Maryland. Seadmok Water is committed to providing high-quality water and wastewater services at an affordable price. Contact us today!
Let’s Get Started
Contact Seadmok Water today to learn more about our comprehensive water connection services and how we can help you facilitate a seamless transition to public water in Baltimore.
We offer a variety of services to help you through the entire water connection process, from obtaining permits to installing the water line to inspecting the connection.
Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing you with the best possible service and ensuring that your water connection is done right. We understand that connecting to public water can be a daunting task, but we are here to make it as easy and stress-free as possible for you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your water connection needs