Survey of utilities

By Roland Thomas

Specifically check the water system
1-What are the size of the water lines serving your street or road?
2-Visit the local water authority and ask about the "history" of the system.
3-How old are the lines?
4-What up-grades are planned and how do they expect to pay for them?
5-Who are the members of the water authority and how well do they get along?

**One local county which has experienced amazing growth, has over 14 water systems**

6-How much "reserve" is in the bank to handle emergencies?
7-Is there a 24 hour a day crew to deal with broken lines and pumps that break?
8- What is the source of water for the authority? Is it reliable well or a river or several
back up systems?
9-What is the water pressure in the neighborhood?
Turn "on" all water in the house to test the pressure.
10-What are the colors of the fire hydrants in the neighborhood and where are they located?
11-Is there a pool or pond on the premises to serve as back up water supply in case of a fire?
12-What annual dues are required to guarantee water and fire protection?

13-HAVE LOCAL FIRE DUES BEEN PAID?--GET A RECEIPT!!!
Recently a commercial building in an upscale developments was not covered by fire or by 911- because it was sandwiched between two city governments and no one had noticed the over-site!

14-IS THERE FLUORIDE in the water?
Of 14 water authorities surveyed recently only half contained fluoride.