Customers warned about tampering with restrictors
Water Notices
The Clutha District Council is closely monitoring restricted water supplies for any signs of tampering with the restrictors that control flow rate.
Council maintains a list of properties connected to these schemes. Staff are very aware of recent incidences where people have interfered with their restrictor devices, which are fitted to the service pipe that goes to the supply tank, by removing or reversing them. These incidences are documented, and it was disappointing to find this behaviour was continuing, Council’s Group Manager Three Waters Linda Till, said.
The restrictors limit the flow rate to the daily supply allowance being paid for, ensuring that all consumers receive a fair share of water.
“Tampering with the restrictor is basically theft,” Ms Till said.
“It means people are stealing water from their neighbours. We check restricted water supplies at least once a year, and we have documented proof that some dishonest behaviour is happening.
“A restricted water supply is just that – it means they have a restricted or limited flow rate and volume of water, and this is critical in periods of high demand, especially as we are now entering summer.”
Tampering is treated seriously by Council and the Rural Water Scheme committees. When evidence of unauthorised water use is found, the property owner's name is reported to the appropriate Rural Water Scheme committee, and the property owner or occupier may be charged for the costs to fix the restrictor, and for the water in terms of Council’s Fees and Charges.
Property owners may also face charges and potential prosecution under the Local Government Act 2002. Council’s actions are taken to maintain the integrity of the water supply system and ensure that all consumers receive a fair and constant supply.
“If anyone needs to reacquaint themselves with the rules, this is covered in Council’s Water Services Bylaw, and our Fees and Charges,” Ms Till said.
Scheme consumers need to be vigilant and fix any internal water leaks, overflowing troughs or leaking internal storage tanks as soon as possible. This will help conserve water for everyone.
It is worthwhile to note that all consumers should have two days storage on their property.
If consumers have a severe water shortage for whatever reason, they should contact Council on 0800 801 350 or alternatively the individual scheme chair, to get in contact with the right people to help.
For more information check out these links:
