Water mains replacements

We periodically replace aged and damaged pipes to:

• reduce the risk of bursts
• minimise unexpected repairs
• reduce supply interruptions, and
• ensure continued water quality.

We replace water mains as they near the end of their serviceable life.

We replace up to 25 km of pipes a year at an annual cost of more than $4 million.

Pipe replacement

Pipes are replaced using "trenchless" technology. This means that pipes are replaced without digging new trenches, reducing the impact on residents and the local environment. Two main methods are used:

• Pipe bursting: a new pipe is pulled through the old one, expanding and cracking the old pipe.
• Directional drilling: a computer-controlled drill bores horizontally  underground, and the new pipe is pulled through the bore. This method is preferred when a new alignment is needed.

Open cut trenching is used only as a last resort.

Planning and works

We record all pipe failures and produce programming forecasts for future replacements.

During works, affected residents and businesses are connected to a temporary water supply line 

The temporary line is a thin black or blue plastic pipe, typically running next to the the footpath along front fences or boundaries. The temporary line may cross footpaths and driveways, and remains in place throughout construction.

When a section of pipe has been completed, pipes are flushed, water quality is tested, and customers are reconnected.

Nature strips, pavement and roads affected by the works are restored within a few weeks. The restoration work is coordinated and completed in conjunction with the local council.

Public facilities such as schools and hospitals are not compromised by works.

Impacts on residents and businesses

Works notifications

We issue works notifications to all customers affected by construction works. The notifications include

• scope of works
• temporary water supply arrangements
• estimated completion
• any property access or reinstement needs, and
• our contact details.

Excavation

We excavate at customers' tappings to the water main. The service is disconnected from the old pipe, then reconnected to the new pipe. Excavation is also required for valves and fireplugs.

Public safety

To protect pedestrians, motorists and residents we erect barricades around equipment, tools, storage facilities, and any works which might pose a hazard or a safety risk.

Property access

Construction works may impact on-street parking. We will notify residents if the works affect property access.

Traffic management

We erect traffic signs at either end of the works area. We use traffic management staff at intersections or partial road closures.

Our storage facilities

We usually have storage sheds and facilities on work sites for workers, equipment, materials and tools.

Storage facilities are usually located on vacant lots, nature strips, median strips or car parks for minimum impact.

Storage shed locations are always coordinated with local councils.

We endeavour to ensure minimal impact on local residents.

Duration of works

Individual jobs can last from a few days to few months.

Our contractors have several work crews working across the region. The work crew may not always be on site.

Working hours

Our normal work hours are 7 am — 5 pm, Monday — Friday.