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The
following terms and conditions made by the Bangor Water District and
approved by the Maine Public Utilities Commission constitute a contract
between the customer and the utility. Any failure to comply with these
rules and regulations, or requirements referenced herein, may be cause
for refusal or discontinuance of service.
The
customer is further referred to the District's:
For
areas not specifically addressed by this document or by reference, the
Maine State Plumbing Code is considered the minimum requirement.
The
District is further governed by the regulations of the Maine Public
Utilities Commission, and by "Rules Related to Drinking Water"
administered by the Maine Dept. of Human Services, Bureau of Health,
Division of Health Engineering Drinking Water Program.
1.
DEFINITIONS
(Return to Table of Contents)
The
word "utility," BWD, or "District" refers to the
Bangor Water District.
The
word "customer" means any person, firm, corporation, or
governmental division which has applied for and is granted service, or
who is responsible for payment of the service.
The
words "water main" means a water pipe owned, operated, and
maintained by the utility, which is used to transmit or distribute water
but is not a water service pipe.
The
words "service pipe" mean the pipe running from the main to
the premises of the customer.
The
"MPUC" refers to the Maine Public Utilities Commission.
"Regular
business hours" are defined as hours during which the District's
business office at 614 State Street is open to the public to transact
business. Currently, these hours are 7:00 a.m. -3:30 p.m. Monday -
Friday (excluding holidays).
2.
APPLICATION OF SERVICE (Return
to Table of Contents)
Application:
Application for service shall be made by the customer through the
District office, 614 State Street, Bangor. The application requires
written authorization and receipt of the establishment fee.
3.
BILLING FOR
DOMESTIC SERVICE AND FIRE PROTECTION
(Return to Table of Contents)
Billing:
Customers are billed based on metered consumption or as otherwise
provided in accordance with the District's rates on file with the MPUC.
Billing
period: The District bills its customers on a quarterly basis, with
exceptions at the discretion of the District. Domestic service is billed
in arrears; flat rate billing and fire service are billed in advance.
Billing
Adjustments: Adjustments to water bills may be made as determined by
Chapter 62 of the MPUC regulations, the District's Office and
Administration Policy regarding billing adjustments, and the District
Board of Trustees' Abatement of Water Bills policy.
4.
CREDIT AND COLLECTION
PROCEDURES (Return to Table of
Contents)
Procedures
are based upon Chapter 810 (residential), Chapter 860 (non-residential),
and Chapter 870 (Late Payment Charges and Interest Rates) of the MPUC
regulations.
Late
Payment Charges: Beginning not less than 90 days after approval of these
Terms and Conditions, the District will charge interest within the
guidelines of Chapter 870 of the MPUC regulations for bills remaining
unpaid after the due date. The Board of Trustees will annually set the
interest rate to be assessed.
Deposits:
The District may charge deposits in accordance with the MPUC regulations
and BWD's deposit policy. The interest rate paid on deposits will be in
accordance with Chapter 870 of the Commission's rules and regulations.
5.
DISCONNECTION
OF LEASED OR RENTED RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
(Return to Table of Contents)
Disconnection
of single meter, multi-unit residential dwellings: Service will be
terminated in accordance with Chapter 810, and the District may exercise
its lien rights in accordance with 35A MRSA 6111 to collect a past due
water bill, including a charge of $300 covering lien notification,
preparation, filing and processing in addition to the past due amount
and collection fee. If service is disconnected, the District may require
installation of separate shut-off valves and meters for each dwelling
unit at the landlord's expense prior to re-establishing service.
6.
RESTORATION OF SERVICE (Return
to Table of Contents)
During
regular business hours, the District will charge a reconnection fee of
$45.00 to restore water service if the service was disconnected for:
non-payment of bills; violation of these Terms and Conditions;
fraudulent use of water; dangerous conditions; violation of Commission
rules; or upon customer request if the disconnection is for more than
five business days. Reconnection of service outside of regular business
hours is at the District's discretion, and is charged to the customer at
$40.00 per hour with a minimum two-hour charge.
7.
CHARGE FOR ESTABLISHMENT
OF SERVICE (Return to Table of
Contents)
The
District charges $22.00 at the time of application to establish water
service during regular business hours. The District charges $40.00 per
hour with a minimum charge of two hours if service is established after
regular business hours.
8.
COLLECTION TRIP FEE (Return
to Table of Contents)
If
District personnel must visit a customer to disconnect for non-payment
and, in lieu of actual disconnection, the customer pays or makes a
payment arrangement, the District will charge the greater of $10.00 or
the maximum collection fee allowed by the MPUC regulations.
9.
TERMS OF
PAYMENT FOR DOMESTIC AND FIRE SERVICE BILLS
(Return to Table of Contents)
All
bills are due and payable upon presentation, and are considered past due
30 days from the postmark. Payments may be made at the District's
office, or through designated collection points or options listed on the
bill. Failure of the customer to receive a bill or disconnection notice
does not relieve him/her of the obligation of its payment nor from the
consequences of non-payment.
The
District does not accept any written conditions stated on a check or
other negotiable instrument unless such conditions are specified in a
separate written agreement signed by an authorized BWD representative.
10.
CHARGE FOR RETURNED CHECKS
(Return to Table of Contents)
In
accordance with BWD's policy on returned checks, the District charges
for any check returned by the bank. The charge is the maximum allowed by
the Maine Public Utilities Commission, currently the greater of $5.00
per check or the amount the bank charges the District, not to exceed
$15.00. The District will furnish the customer with proof of any bank
charges in excess of $5.00 if requested.
11.
UNAUTHORIZED USE OF WATER (Return
to Table of Contents)
Use
of water is confined to the premises named in the service application.
Unauthorized use of water is considered theft of services.
Authorized
Use of Hydrants: Fire hydrants may not be used for any purpose other
than to extinguish fires unless prior permission is given by the
District. In any case, fire hydrants may not be opened by any person
other than an agent of the utility, a duly authorized representative of
the municipality, the owner, or as authorized by the District.
12.
MAINTENANCE OF PLUMBING (Return
to Table of Contents)
A
customer must maintain the plumbing and fixtures within his/her premises
in good repair and protect them from freezing. The meter will be located
in a warm, clean, dry, and accessible area such that it can be serviced
and read during normal business hours. The customer is responsible for
all labor, overhead, material and equipment costs associated with
repairing damaged or frozen water meters. Painting of meters or remote
reader units constitutes damage.
13.
NO TAMPERING WITH UTILITY
PROPERTY (Return to Table of Contents)
There
shall be no tampering with or operating District property--including but
not limited to hydrants, standpipes, valves (main line), service line
valves or meters/remote readers--without the consent of the District.
14.
ACCESS TO PREMISES (Return
to Table of Contents)
An
employee of the District, having displayed a valid District
identification card with photo, will have free access during regular
business hours to all premises supplied with water to permit reading of
the water meter, inspection of the plumbing system, installation,
inspection, repair or removal of meter, and inspection of
cross-connection prevention.
15.
LIABILITY (Return
to Table of Contents)
The
District will only be liable for any damages arising from claims to the
extent liability is provided in the Maine Tort Claims Act, as set forth
in Title 14, Chapter 741 of the Maine Revised Statutes Annotated. The
utility makes no representations or warranties about the suitability of
the water for any particular purpose.
16.
SERVICE INTERRUPTION (Return
to Table of Contents)
The
District will provide notice of any planned shut-off to affected
customers at least 24 hours in advance of the interruption of service.
The District will give notice of any unplanned shut-off when
practicable. If a customer requests, the District will make a pro rata
reduction in the customer's minimum bill if service is interrupted for
longer than 48 hours and the interruption is not the customer's fault.
17.
METERING (Return to
Table of Contents)
Installation:
A customer may have a water meter installed after signing for the meter
at the District's office, or on receipt of written request and
establishment fee, and by making an appointment to be present as
necessary.
Meter
Location: Meters shall be set within two feet of the point of entry into
the building, and in accordance with the District's approved metering
policy. Meters once set may be relocated, with the District's approval,
at the expense of the customer.
Meter
size: The District will determine the size and number of the meters to
be installed (both temporary and permanent) based on technical
requirements and its metering policy.
Separate
shut-offs: Except as provided in Chapter 8l0, each unit of a multi-unit
structure will have its own meter unless a variance is granted. The
District requires separate shut-offs in acceptable locations always
accessible to the District before tenants are allowed to sign.
Mobile
homes: Meters for mobile homes will be installed inside the unit.
Pit
meters: Meters in pits are allowed only with District permission and in
accordance with the requirements of the Maine Drinking Water Program.
Location
of reader: Remote readers will be installed in a protected outside area
accessible at all times. The owner is responsible for the care of and
any damage to the remote reader.
18.
METER TESTING (Return
to Table of Contents)
The
District's meter cycling program requires that all meters sized 5/8-inch
through two-inch be tested at least once during a fifteen-year service
period. For meters sized three inches and larger, the District will test
its water meters according to the schedule and standards in Chapter 620.
Upon customer request, the District will test the customer's water meter
in the presence of the customer or representative, at no charge unless
the customer requests more than one test in 18 months. If the customer
requests a test more frequently, the District will require the customer
to pay a deposit equivalent to the appropriate charge listed below to
cover the cost of the test. If a meter tested at the customer's request
does not conform to MPUC standards, the customer's deposit will be
refunded and the District will adjust the customer's bill according to
the provisions of Chapter 620. If the meter conforms to the standards,
the District will retain the customer's deposit and may continue to use
the meter at the customer's premises.
Replacement/Repair
of damaged meters: The charge for the repair of meters damaged due to
improper care by the customer is :
|
Size
|
During
business hours
|
After
hours
|
|
5/8
- 1"
|
$65.00
|
$110
|
|
1
1/2 - 2"
|
$60.00
plus invoice for replacement
|
$100
plus invoice for replacement
|
|
3"
and up
|
$95.00
plus invoice for replacement
|
$180
plus invoice for replacement
|
Meters
sized 1 1/2 inches and larger must be replaced when damaged.
Charge
for testing meters at customer's request: During business hours, a
charge of $55.00 will be made for testing meters size 5/8" to two
inch; for testing meters three inches and larger, the charge will be
$95.00. During non-business hours, a charge of $40.00 per hour with a
two-hour minimum will apply.
19.
SUBMETERING (Return
to Table of Contents)
Meters
for showing subdivision of water use must be furnished, installed, read,
and maintained at the customer's own expense.
20.
ISOLATION VALVE (Return
to Table of Contents)
The
District requires that the service pipe will be equipped with water
isolation valves located near the service entrance on both sides of the
meter. These valves are installed, owned, and maintained by the owner.
The service pipe is to be equipped with adapters (supplied by the owner)
compatible with the meter couplings (supplied by the District). These
adapters are installed, owned and maintained by the owner.
21.
CROSS CONNECTIONS (Return
to Table of Contents)
All
customers--both new and existing-will comply with all provisions of the
District's approved cross-connection control program regarding
installation, inspection, maintenance, and testing of approved backflow
prevention devices. All requirements of the District's cross-connection
control program must be met before water service will be supplied to new
accounts. If a customer fails or refuses to break or properly protect
the cross connection within a time limit specified by the utility, the
utility may disconnect the service per its approved program.
22.
WATER PRESSURE (Return
to Table of Contents)
Inadequate
water pressure: In services where the normal operation pressure could be
expected to fall below twenty (20) pounds per square inch, a
"Limited Service Contract," as approved by the MPUC is
required. Whenever water pressure at any fixture in a maximum flow
condition after allowing for friction, elevation and other pressures, is
less than fifteen (l5) pounds per square inch, a pressure pump or other
means which will provide said fifteen (l5) pounds pressure shall be
installed. Services utilizing a booster pump or other means to provide
fifteen (l5) pounds pressure or greater shall be equipped with an
approved double check valve assembly located between the isolation valve
and the water meter, unless a variance is requested.
Excessive
water pressure: When water pressure is in excess of eighty (80) pounds
per square inch, an approved type of pressure regulator preceded by an
adequate strainer shall be installed and the pressure reduced to eighty
(80) pounds per square inch or less. The pressure reducing valve shall
be located between the isolation valve and the water meter unless a
variance is granted.
A
customer may not install or use any device which will affect the
District's pressure or water quality without prior utility permission.
If permission is granted, the District may require the customer to
confine or reduce such fluctuations to limits determined by the
District. Failure to comply will result in termination of service in
accordance with Chapter 810 or Chapter 860 of the Maine Public Utilities
Commission.
23.
SAFEGUARDING DIRECT PRESSURE WATER
DEVICES AND SYSTEMS SUPPLIED BY AUTOMATIC FEED VALVES (Return
to Table of Contents)
Safeguarding
direct pressure devices: Customers must install vacuum, temperature, and
pressure relief valves or cutouts to prevent damage to a direct pressure
water device or secondary system supplied by an automatic feed valve,
should a reduction occur in the water main pressure. The District is not
liable for damage resulting from lack of or failure of these devices.
24.
UTILITY JOBBING (Return
to Table of Contents)
"Utility
jobbing" means unregulated utility services, including but not
limited to construction and laboratory services.
A
customer must complete a written application before a utility will
provide unregulated utility service
Applicants
are required to provide, in advance, sufficient funds as provided in a
written estimate by the District to cover the anticipated District
expense. The District will return excess funding within 30 days of
project completion; costs in excess of the estimate will be billed to
the customer and must be paid within 30 days.
Work
performed in support of unregulated utility service outside regular
business hours will be charged at overtime rates.
New
service installation: The District is responsible for performing the tap
into its water main. The customer is responsible for providing the
corporation to complete the tap, and for installation of the service
line from the tap into the premises to be served, including the curb
stop. Installations must meet District specifications.
A
"Request for Water Service - Municipal Authorization" must be
completed and signed by the authorized municipal officials before the
District will supply service to new services.
District
ownership: The District shall own and maintain the service pipe
including the curb stop within the limits of the public way. Applicants
for new services will be required to pay the cost of installing this
section of pipe.
Customer
ownership: The owner shall, at his/her own expense, install, own and
maintain the portion of the service pipe between the edge of the public
way and the water meter. To avoid potential problems regarding the
location of the service pipe, the owner is requested to consult with the
District prior to the installation or renewal of their service pipe.
Laboratory
tests: The charge for individual water tests performed in the laboratory
at the request of a customer will be $15.50. Total coliform, E-coli, HPC,
pH, fluoride, and turbidity are all considered individual tests.
Flow
tests: For flow tests of an individual hydrant or sprinkler system, the
charge is $60.00. For each additional hydrant or sprinkler system at the
same site, the charge will be $15.00.
Bulk
Water Sales: At customer request and in compliance with the District's
policy for meters set on hydrants, the District may provide a meter and
backflow preventer for temporary bulk water from a hydrant for a
construction site, or for filling a swimming pool, holding tank, or
other large container.
25.
WINTER CONSTRUCTION (Return
to Table of Contents)
No
new service or extension of mains will be installed for the convenience
of a customer during winter conditions which increase the cost of the
work for the District unless the customer assumes all extra expense over
ordinary construction costs.
26.
SERVICE PIPE (Return
to Table of Contents)
Customers
are referred to the District's Construction/Technical Specifications
regarding joint use of service pipe trench.
Separate
service: Unless otherwise approved, each dwelling unit will have its own
service and curb stop (shut off) in accordance with the District's
construction specifications.
Valve
box location: Valve boxes for water mains and services shall be at least
five feet from all structures and at least two feet from all shrubs and
trees.
Service
pipe: Service pipe installed underground must be Type K copper. Service
pipe installed above ground or inside a building must be Type K or L
copper; this copper must extend to at least two feet beyond the water
meter. The owner's service pipe is to be located such that the water
meter can be installed within two feet of the point of entry of the
building served as measured along the water pipe. No unmetered
connections are allowed before the water meter.
Inspection:
The District shall inspect all underground service installations
including renewals prior to backfilling. The District shall be given
advance notice such that inspection may be performed during regular
business hours. Work performed outside of regular business hours
requires advance approval; this work will be considered utility jobbing,
and will be billed to the customer. Approval of such installation by the
District does not constitute a guarantee by the District as to the
sufficiency of the materials or workmanship.
27.
FLAT RATE DOMESTIC SERVICE
BILLING (Return to Table of Contents)
All
customers billed on flat rates will be charged for all fixtures, whether
used or not. If a hot and cold water faucet supply the same fixture,
only one faucet will be charged. No water will be furnished for less
than the first faucet rate. No customer supplied with water on flat
rates may install any additional fixtures or alter any previously
installed fixtures without first giving written notice to the District.
Customers
on flat rates must prevent all unnecessary waste of water. Water will
not be supplied on flat rates for any continuous flow device. The
District will decide what constitutes waste or improper use and will
restrict usage when necessary.
28.
PRIVATE FIRE PROTECTION (Return
to Table of Contents)
Customers
requiring private fire protection must contact the District to determine
the availability of fire service at their location. Fire service, if
available, will be installed at the customer's expenses within the
bounds of the public way or right-of-way. The fire service line, after
installation, will be owned and maintained in the public right-of-way by
the District. The District does not guarantee any quantity of water or
pressure available through a fire protection system. The owner of the
service shall determine, from time to time, the adequacy of the supply
through the first service by conducting tests of the private system.
Timely notice must be given to the District so a representative of the
District can be present to observe the test.
Customers
wishing to cancel fire service protection must notify the District in
advance and in writing, and must have permission in writing from the
appropriate fire department official. Physical shut-off of the fire
service and/or private hydrant(s) will not be made by the District until
the prescribed notice has been made.
29.
VARIANCES (Return
to Table of Contents)
Requests
for a variance to these Terms and Conditions must by a customer through
a written request to the District.
30.
AVAILABILITY (Return
to Table of Contents)
Availability:
A minimum notice of two business days is required to turn on a service
or set a water meter, unless the service has been disconnected for
non-payment. A minimum notice of five business days is required to
discontinue service, and the customer is responsible for service until
the appropriate notice has been made. These services are available
during regular business hours, and someone must be on the premises if
entry by District personnel is required.
Emergency
Service: Emergency service of a limited nature is provided during
non-business hours when-in the opinion of the District-public health or
safety is at risk. Work performed for a customer will be billed to the
customer, payable within 30 days.
31.
VISIT TO PREMISES (Return
to Table of Contents)
A
visit to the premises by District personnel to establish, maintain, or
terminate service may be required. Service personnel will not enter the
premises nor restore water service to the premises unless accompanied by
the customer or a representative thereof.
32.
WATER CONSERVATION (Return
to Table of Contents)
When
necessary to conserve the water supply, the District may restrict or
prohibit water use for both flat rate and metered customers.
33.
FROZEN SERVICES (Return
to Table of Contents)
When
the District is requested by a customer to thaw a frozen service pipe
and it cannot be determined whether it was frozen on the District's
portion of the pipe or the customer's portion, one-half of the cost of
thawing the pipe shall be borne by the District per MPUC regulations.
Application:
Application for service shall be made by the customer through the
District office, 614 State Street, Bangor. The application requires
written authorization and receipt of the establishment fee. |
