Notifying residents and businesses about potential water leaks can help identify problems sooner. However, it could also open up another avenue for scammers.
To stop such scams before they start, one utility spread the word that its text and email leak-alert messages will never ask for money.
Here's what to know
The Brownsville Public Utilities Board in Texas launched its leak notification program on November 1, according to KRGV. The system utilizes advanced metering infrastructure technology to identify potential leaks.
Under the program, customers may receive a text or email warning of a possible leak when smart-meter readings show that water has been running for an extended period.
"This notification will be every 24 hours, weekly, or biweekly depending on the consumption," said Alexa Perez, a spokesperson for the Brownsville Public Utilities Board. "All the messages will come from the number 96681, or if it is via email, it will come from a no-reply email from BPUB."
BPUB customer service can answer questions about the program and assist customers who receive a continuous-use notice, according to KRGV.
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"That means that whenever our system notices that a customer is using water for prolonged periods of time, we're going to be providing a notification to them via text or via email," Perez said.
The utility also emphasized that these notifications would never ask customers for money, seeking to prevent scammers who might pose as the water company providing a leak notification.
The benefits of early notice
Oftentimes, leaks can go undetected until after they have caused considerable property damage and have racked up large water bills. Early notification of a water leak can save money, prevent damage, and help conserve freshwater resources.
Leaks that go undetected and unresolved can waste considerable amounts of an increasingly scarce resource.
Where can I learn more?
Water conservation is becoming increasingly important in communities across the United States, especially those in dry climates.
• First-time homeowners received a huge leak warning, despite their water meter reading 0.0.
• A Florida homeowner's utility reported 1,400 gallons used in 10 hours after bills soared.
• A Florida renter discovered a $30,198 water bill tied to 1 million gallons after shutoff.
• Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, planned to test smart water meters after residents' bills soared.
• Odessa, Texas, was fighting water bill refunds as hundreds say new meters quadrupled charges.
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