Handling a Water or Fire Main Break in Denver, Colorado: Essential Steps for Property Managers

When a potable water or fire main break occurs on your property, it can lead to significant disruption and potential damage if not promptly addressed. As a property manager in Denver, Colorado, you must act swiftly and efficiently to mitigate water damage, ensure safety and restore service. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the steps to take upon witnessing a water or fire main break in your parking lot or surrounding area.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Evaluate the Situation

The first thing to consider is the safety of the people on your property. Large amounts of water can create slippery surfaces, erode soil under sidewalks or parking lots and flood buildings, all of which pose hazards to tenants, employees and visitors.

  1. Assess the extent of the water leak: Observe how much water is flowing, whether it’s impacting structures and if there are immediate threats to life or property.
  2. Clear the area: If the break creates a safety hazard, ensure people move away from the affected area. Use barriers or caution tape to prevent accidents.

Step 2: Notify Denver Water or Your Local Water District Immediately

Once you’ve assessed the situation, the next step is to contact Denver Water or the local water district listed on your water bill.

  1. Call Denver Water’s Emergency Line: Reach their team at 303.628.6801. Provide details about the incident, including: The exact location of the break, whether the break is causing flooding or significant water damage and any safety concerns requiring immediate attention.
  2. Wait for a response: Denver Water will dispatch a team to shut off the main water supply. Be prepared for potential delays if they’re handling multiple emergencies. While waiting, continue monitoring the situation and ensuring safety.

Step 3: Document the Incident for Future Reference

While waiting, take the opportunity to document the incident. Comprehensive documentation can be valuable for insurance claims, legal purposes or reporting to stakeholders.

  1. Take photographs and videos: Capture images of the water break, surrounding damage and affected areas. Include pictures from multiple angles.
  2. Record detailed notes: Write down when you discovered the break, when you contacted Denver Water and any notable observations. Include the names of officials or contractors you communicate with.

Step 4: Choose a Qualified Contractor for Repairs

After Denver Water shuts off the water and assesses the situation, hire a contractor to repair the broken main. Selecting a licensed and experienced contractor who understands local codes is critical.

  1. Seek a contractor with appropriate licensing: Ensure the contractor holds a valid license with the State of Colorado. They should handle permits and any required right-of-way access.
  2. Verify experience and references: Choose a contractor with a proven track record in water or fire main repairs. Ask for references or case studies.
  3. Confirm insurance and bonding for commercial real estate: The contractor should have liability insurance and be bonded to protect against unforeseen issues. Request proof of insurance listing your company and property as additional insureds.

Step 5: Obtain Necessary Permits and Plan the Repair

Working on a potable water or fire main often requires permits from the City and County of Denver or the local jurisdiction. Your contractor should manage the permitting process, but stay informed to ensure compliance.

  1. Coordinate with Denver Water and city inspectors: Denver Water may need to inspect the repairs, and city officials might review the site before or after work is completed.
  2. Plan for minimal disruption: Repairs can take hours or days. Develop plans to minimize inconvenience for tenants or businesses, like arranging temporary water sources or portable restroom facilities.

Step 6: Conduct Post-Repair Inspections and Restoration

Once the repair is complete, ensure everything is restored and meets required standards.

  1. Inspect the repair site: Walk through the area with your contractor to confirm the repair was done to your satisfaction and complies with jurisdictional specifications.
  2. Check for residual damage: Inspect landscaping, pavement or building foundations for damage caused by the water break. Plan any necessary restoration work, such as regrading soil or replacing asphalt.
  3. Restore fire protection systems: If the fire main was involved, verify the fire suppression system is fully operational before closing the issue. You may need fire safety professionals for a final inspection.

Step 7: Review Your Emergency Response Plan

Use the incident as an opportunity to improve your emergency response plan.

  1. Assess your preparedness: Determine whether your team handled the situation efficiently and identify areas for improvement.
  2. Update your emergency contacts and resources: Ensure your list of contacts, including Denver Water, local fire departments and contractors, is current. Train staff on how to manage future incidents effectively.

To wrap it up

Handling a potable water or fire main break efficiently requires quick thinking, strategic action and collaboration with professionals. By following these steps and working closely with Denver Water and a licensed contractor, you can minimize damage, ensure safety and restore service quickly. Be prepared and vigilant—fast action is key to protecting your property and the people who depend on you. Give RK Service a call at 877.576.9696 for 24/7 service that keeps you up and running day or night.