Lake Section Water Company

Certain individuals may have increased vulnerability to water contaminants compared to the general population. Those with compromised immune systems, including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly people, and infants may face heightened risks from infections. These vulnerable groups should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption options.

EPA/CDC guidelines for reducing contamination risks from cryptosporidium and other microbiological contaminants are available through the Safe Municipal Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

TOTAL COLIFORM: The Total Coliform Rule requires water systems to maintain strict limits on coliform bacteria levels. While these bacteria are typically harmless, their presence indicates potential disease-causing bacteria. When coliform is detected, special follow-up testing identifies whether harmful bacteria exist in the water supply. If limits are exceeded, the utility must notify residents through local media channels.

LEAD AWARENESS: Elevated lead levels pose serious health risks, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in municipal water primarily comes from service line materials and household plumbing components. While Lake Section Water Company provides quality water, they cannot control materials used in residential plumbing. To minimize lead exposure, flush your tap for 30-120 seconds before using water for consumption, especially after periods of non-use. For concerns about lead, consider water testing through the Safe Municipal Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Based on Alabama Department of Environmental Management studies approved by the EPA, a statewide waiver for monitoring dioxin was issued, eliminating the requirement for testing these contaminants. The accompanying tables list substances tested during January-December 2016. All municipal water, including bottled varieties, reasonably contains at least minimal amounts of tested chemicals, though their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks.

For online report access or to download electronic copies, visit www.hartselleutilities.org. Additional report copies are available at the Hartselle Utilities Main Office at 1010 Sparkman Road NW, Hartselle, Alabama.

Many additional substances are tested during initial water treatment at the Decatur Utilities Water Treatment Plant. For complete information, obtain the Decatur Utilities 2017 Annual Water Quality Report by calling their Customer Service department at (256) 552-1440 or visiting www.decaturutilities.com.

1. What if I believe my usage is too high? The most common cause of high bills is water leaks. First, inspect your plumbing and fixtures to ensure unusual consumption isn't due to leaking components. Leaking toilets can waste up to 5,000 gallons daily, while dripping faucets waste approximately 96 gallons per day! Contact the Utility Billing Office at 903-654-4825 during business hours for assistance. A field technician can verify your meter reading. Each customer receives one free meter check annually; additional checks cost $10. Remember, you're responsible for paying the billed amount, with credits issued only if meter problems are confirmed.
2. How is my meter read? Water meters throughout Chaparral's system use electronic registers that transmit readings to mobile meter reading vehicles equipped with receivers. This technology significantly reduces reading time and errors. Occasionally, meters require manual reading due to weather conditions, debris, or other signal obstructions.
3. Must I be present for meter connection? While being home during connection is ideal, it's not mandatory. However, ensure all water fixtures and appliances are completely turned off. Technicians won't activate service if water continues flowing when nobody is present. The utility isn't liable for property damage from open faucets or system leaks. A door tag will explain why service couldn't be established if necessary.
4. What happens if the technician finds no leak? Since our technicians aren't licensed plumbers, consider hiring a professional for thorough assessment. Technicians primarily verify meter accuracy and perform visual inspections. While they may suggest possible leaks, professional plumber consultation is recommended. We can arrange meter accuracy testing, but you remain responsible for billed amounts. Testing takes 30-90 days depending on maintenance schedules, with service fees ($15 standard test, $30 certified calibration) added if meters test accurately.
5. How do I open/close/transfer my utility service? Visit our service management page for detailed instructions.
6. What are the deposit and connection fees? Consult the Utilities-Water and Wastewater section in Chapter 13 Fees and Cost of Services schedule for current rates.
7. When will my deposit be refunded? Deposits remain in liability accounts until service closure, when they're applied toward final balances. Remaining amounts are returned after account closure. Refund checks are processed monthly. Contact the Utility Billing Office at 903-654-4825 before moving to provide forwarding information.
8. Can deposits be paid in installments? Are there exceptions? No, deposits and connection fees are due at service establishment with no exceptions.
9. How are water and sewer rates calculated? Your bill includes monthly base rates plus volumetric charges per 1,000 gallons. Review the Utilities-Water and Wastewater section in Chapter 13 Fees and Cost of Services schedule for current rates. Base rates vary by meter size, with most residential customers having 5/8" or 3/4" meters.
10. Who handles water/sewer service issues or emergencies? Contact the Service Center at 903-654-4893 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For after-hours, weekends, or holidays, call 903-654-4902. Online reporting options are available for sewer backups and water leaks.
11. What's the garbage and recycling schedule? Review the Pickup Schedule and Route Map. Separate trucks collect garbage and recycling on scheduled days. For service questions, contact Allied Waste at 903-874-8717. For billing inquiries, email the Utility Billing Office or call 903-654-4825.
12. What's the supplementary fee? The $3.50 monthly fee covers collection and disposal of up to 5 cubic yards of brush, mandated by city ordinance for all residents within city limits. Additional charges apply for larger amounts: $16 per cubic yard beyond 5 cubic yards, with $200 surcharges for limbs exceeding 8 inches in diameter. Brush overage charges appear on water bills. See the Brush Pick-Up page for details.
13. When are utility bills due? Billing cycles depend on account numbers. Accounts starting with 001-014, 026, 030-033, and specific codes are billed around the 20th post-billing period, due around the 10th of the following month. Accounts starting with different number patterns are billed around the 30th, due around the 20th of the following month. Late payments incur 10% penalties, with service interruption and additional fees for payments not received by the disconnect date specified on bills. Note that billing/due dates occasionally vary; always check your bill's specific dates.
14. How do I make utility payments? Visit our Bill Payment Options page for various payment methods.
15. Are discounted rates available? Seniors 65+ qualify for reduced rates by completing a form ANNUALLY at the Utility Billing office or submitting our printable form with valid ID verification. This discount applies only to primary residences with 3/4" meters.