The Highland Lakes Water District has launched the Service Line Improvement Project to identify and replace older, plastic sprinkler-type service lines that are at higher risk of failure. These lines were never intended for long-term drinking water use, and they can cause problems for both homeowners and the community system if not addressed.
This page will help you check whether your home may have one of these service lines and explain what to do next.
Why It Matters
- Leaks & Breaks: Plastic sprinkler pipe was not designed for decades of underground use. Failures can lead to sudden water loss, costly property damage, and wasted water.
- Community Impact: Leaking service lines can strain the system and affect water availability for your neighbors.
- Proactive Replacement: Identifying risky lines now allows the District to plan replacements in phases and make limited cost-share funds available.
How to Check Your Service Line
- Locate where water enters your home.
- This is usually in a crawl space, basement, or utility room.
- Look at the pipe material.
- Copper or PEX (flexible blue/red/white plastic tubing): Safe and not part of this project.
- Plastic sprinkler pipe (often black, thin-walled, flexible tubing): Risky and should be replaced.
What to Do Next
If you see a black plastic sprinkler pipe where your service line enters the home:
When you email, please include:
- A couple of photos showing the pipe
- Your name
- Service address
- Phone number (in case we need clarification)
A District representative will review your photos and contact you with the next steps.
What Happens After Review
- If your line is safe: We’ll confirm that no action is needed.
- If your line is risky: You’ll be added to the Service Line Improvement Project replacement list. The District will schedule projects in phases and contact homeowners directly when it’s time for their line to be replaced. Limited cost-share resources may be available, depending on funding and eligibility.
Questions?
Call our office at 719-687-7937 or email highlandwater@msn.com if you need help locating your service line or understanding the replacement process.