Section 4: Restoration of Service
Anchor: #i1003160Policy
TxDOT policy regarding restoration of utility customer service to properties and improvements is as follows.
The determination regarding TxDOT participation for reestablishing service to properties depends upon whether the property presently provided with such service constitutes a partial or whole taking. If the utility line is presently serving property or properties that are subject to a whole taking, TxDOT will not reimburse for the installation of new lines, but will handle this situation as outlined in Disposition of Existing Utility Facilities. TxDOT cannot provide service to property or properties where service did not previously exist. If, however, there is only a partial taking of property or properties within the proposed right of way and utility service is presently provided, TxDOT will participate in the cost of providing a new service to the remainder. It will also provide for installations parallel to the proposed right of way line to make service available to the approximate location serviced by the present facility.
Lines providing service to an improvement either partially or wholly within the area of taking, TxDOT will not reimburse for the installation of new private service lines through the utility process, but rather the acquisition process. The value will be established through the appraisal process. The responsibility of providing service facilities to the new or relocated residence or business rests with the utility or the consumer.
Anchor: #i1003185Backflow Prevention Assemblies
Backflow Prevention Assemblies (backflow preventers) are required by municipalities and other governmental agencies to protect the public water supply from becoming contaminated by the reversal of flow of water and other liquids, gases, or other substances into the public water supply.
Backflow preventers are found on private property and typically found on the private side, downstream, of the water meter. It is the responsibility of the property owner to install and maintain the backflow preventer when one is required. If a backflow preventer is not installed, not installed properly, or not maintained, the utility has the right to stop service and/ or fine the property owner until the problem is corrected.
Backflow prevention assemblies vary in size depending on their intended use. The most common use for back flow preventers is for isolated private fire-line systems, landscape irrigation, and for fire sprinkler systems. A small backflow preventer would be used for an individual’s irrigation system and a large backflow prevention system contained in a vault would be used for a private commercial fire line. The District is encouraged to investigate other local requirements where a backflow preventer may be required.
The cost to cure (refer to the ROW Appraisal and Review Manual) a backflow prevention system, which is required to be adjusted due to highway construction, should be included in the appraisal of the parcel where the backflow preventer is located. The property owner is typically responsible for hiring a licensed plumber to install a new backflow preventer.