Water & Sewer

Backflow is caused by the backward flow of water due to a change in water pressure.  It can be avoided by ensuring that a backflow preventer is in place in case of a potential or existing cross-connection (an actual or a potential connection between any part of a potable water system and another environment containing other substances - non-potable water, chemicals, etc.). Although less frequently than in businesses, cross connections can be found in residential buildings (in pools, irrigation systems, etc.).

However, recently built homes do have backflow preventers. It is recommended that one be installed by a certified plumber in older homes. An unprotected or inadequately protected cross connection on your premises could contaminate drinking water, not only to your business or home, but also in the line that supplies neighbouring homes and businesses.

Home or business owners are responsible for making sure that there are no cross-connections on their properties. If you suspect that there is one in your house or building, please contact the New Brunswick Department of Public Safety.

There are several reasons why a watermain break can occur, such as a change in temperature, age of the pipe, excessive pressure, etc.

If you notice a watermain break, immediately call 506-447-8481 to report the issue.

For services:

• Pay my water & sewer bill 
• Utility Property Transfer Request
• Rates
• Water Quality and Services
• Locates 
• Water Main Flushing (Annual)
• Sewer Main Flushing
• Meter Reads
• How to Read Your Water Meter
• Backflow Prevention
• Watermain Breaks
• Every Drop Counts
• Things That should Never be Put Down a Toilet or Drain

Contact: 506-447-8481
Non-urgent email: publicworks@oromocto.ca

This maintenance involves using high-pressure water to clean the inside of the pipes.  While this does not usually cause issues for residents, in some cases, the movement of air in the water lines could result in bubbling inside your home. Should this occur, air may force its way out of the toilet, which may lead to water shooting upwards. Note that the water is not sewage water from the main line, but rather water from the toilet itself. To help reduce any water cleanup, we ask residents to keep the toilet seat(s) down. 

Additionally, the flushing may also cause your basement floor drains to have the water pulled out of them. Traditionally, floor drains have a trap of which the main purpose is to eliminate the possibility of sewer gas from entering the confines of the room or building. 

Upon completion of flushing the lines, some residents may notice an odour of sewer gas in their home. This can be remedied by pouring water back into floor drains or any other trap that may have had water removed from it.

Preventative maintenance such as this may cause minor inconveniences, though it will help to alleviate potential future issues on a larger scale.

The Department of Engineering and Public Works performs quarterly meter reads throughout the town during the months of January, April, July, and October.

Regular meter readings can help you save money and avoid high bills by alerting you to unusual increases in the amount of water you use. They also assist in the early detection of costly water waste and plumbing leaks. Check your plumbing fixtures regularly and fix any dripping taps or faulty toilets. 

• Locate your water meter. They are normally found in basements or crawl spaces.
• If your meter has a lid, lift it.
• When you read your meter, write down every number from left to right exactly as it appears on the "odometer style" display of your meter's dial. This includes all zeros at the beginning and the black number(s) at the end.
• Call 506-357-4400 and select Option #2 to report your meter reading. If preferred, an image (photo) of the meter can be emailed to gengov@oromocto.ca, including your meter number and home address.
• If you received an estimated bill, please contact us to provide the following information or arrange for our staff to read the meter.

1. Meter reading
2. Date of the reading
3. Account number
4. Service (civic) address
5. Customer name