September 13, 2023

Protecting Your Home’s Waterline and Wallet

Protecting Your Home’s Waterline and Wallet

City of Tacoma’s Waterline Repair Grant and Zero-Interest Loan Program

We take it for granted, but the City of Tacoma’s water line plays a vital role in supplying us with clean and safe water. Just like everything else in your home, waterlines are subject to wear and tear over time, and if neglected, they can lead to significant issues such as bursts, leaks, or even complete failure. But did you know that if the city’s waterline fails or breaks anywhere on your property’s side of the water meter, it becomes your responsibility to get it repaired? 

The City of Tacoma understands the importance of proactive measures in reducing the risk of future waterline issues and the financial burden of unexpected repairs. That’s why the York Enterprises team wants to alert you of the city’s initiative to assist homeowners with grants and zero-interest loans to alleviate the financial strain associated with waterline repairs.

Prevention is key when it comes to safeguarding your home and finances. By taking the time now to service your city waterline, you can significantly reduce the risk of future bursts or leaks. Routine inspections and timely maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. This not only ensures a continuous supply of clean water but also saves you from unexpected and costly repairs down the road.

The City's Financial Assistance Program

In order to reduce the financial strain that waterline repairs can place on homeowners, the City of Tacoma has introduced a grant and zero-interest loan program to help ease this burden. This initiative is a proactive step toward ensuring that you can access funds to repair or replace your line without enduring financial hardship.

The grant program offers financial assistance to eligible homeowners who meet specific criteria, including income levels and the condition of your waterline. Qualified applicants may receive grants for up to $5,000 to go towards paying a licensed and bonded contractor (like York Enterprises) to replace leaking or end-of-life water service lines at your home. This not only makes necessary repairs more affordable but also encourages homeowners to address waterline issues promptly.

For those who don’t meet the grant program's criteria, the City of Tacoma offers you a zero-interest loan option up to $5,000 for up to 84 months, but their team is open to discussing exceptions for amounts and terms exceeding that criteria. This means that homeowners can secure a loan to cover their waterline repair costs without the burden of high-interest rates. The loan is a lien against your property, but can be repaid over a reasonable period, allowing homeowners to manage your finances more effectively while ensuring a steady flow of water for your family.

The water grant and loan applies to leaks or breaks discovered on your residential water service line and are subject to certain conditions and restrictions. Applying is easy and you can find out all the details about the program on Tacoma Public Utilities’ website.

Your city waterline may not be at the forefront of your home maintenance priorities or remodeling aspirations, but neglecting it can have costly consequences. Understanding that it is your responsibility to maintain and repair this crucial component of your home is the first step in protecting your property and your finances.

The City of Tacoma's grant and zero-interest loan program is a lifeline for homeowners facing waterline issues. Our team at York Enterprises have seen many unfortunate circumstances where this would have come in handy, and would be happy to answer any questions about the potential benefits. Proactive maintenance and timely action will not only save you money but also provide peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from the unexpected.

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