Cochrane Outlines Homeowner Duties for Water and Sewer Line Upkeep

Homeowners in Cochrane are responsible for maintaining and repairing water and sewer service lines located on their property, according to a July 4, 2025 notice from the Corporation of the Town of Cochrane.

According to the Town, responsibility for these water and sewer lines is shared between the municipality and the homeowner. The Town maintains the section of lines from the municipal watermain to the property line, while homeowners are required to manage and pay for repairs to the section located on their own property.

The Town states that if a leak, break, or operational failure occurs on the private portion of these service lines, the homeowner must hire a plumber or contractor and pay for repairs. The possibility of an unexpected breakdown is noted, and the lifespan of a service line may be affected by factors such as construction materials, soil conditions, usage, and the presence of nearby trees.

Basic homeowners’ insurance policies do not typically cover damage to private portions of water and sewer service lines. The Town advises residents to review their insurance policies and consult with providers about possible coverage, deductibles, exclusions, or add-on options.

The Town has entered into an agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC), offering residents an optional repair plan. Participation in this plan is voluntary, according to the Town.