This bill mandates that water purveyors conduct inspections of underground water distribution infrastructure at least once every five years, or every two years for iron or galvanized infrastructure and infrastructure that is 30 years or older. The inspections must utilize techniques specified by the Department of Environmental Protection, including acoustical leak detection, visual and physical inspections, and analytical tracking to identify water loss. In cases where water loss is suspected but not detected, water purveyors are required to investigate soil conditions using ground penetrating radar and other methods. Additionally, in areas prone to sinkholes, an active water loss monitoring system must be implemented, and any infrastructure found to be weakened or at risk of collapse must be repaired or replaced immediately.

Furthermore, the bill introduces liability for water purveyors regarding property damage incurred by homeowners or businesses due to failures in underground water distribution infrastructure that result from inadequate inspections. It also establishes penalties for violations of the provisions outlined in the bill, with a requirement for the Department to adopt a schedule of civil administrative penalties for specific infractions. This legislation aims to enhance the safety and reliability of water distribution systems while holding water purveyors accountable for their maintenance practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 58:31-3, 58:31-9