Lead and Galvanized Steel Water Service Line Replacement Cost Sharing Program

The Village Council has approved a Lead and Galvanized Steel Water Service Line Replacement Cost Sharing Program to assist homeowners in replacing their lead or galvanized steel water service lines.

How is participation determined?

Participation is voluntary and is available to all residential properties with an existing lead or galvanized steel water service line. Based upon contact initiated by the resident, the Department of Public Works will provide instructions and an application form for pre-approval of the reimbursement amount. Residents who wish to participate in the Lead and Galvanized Steel Water Service Line Replacement Cost Sharing Program should fill out and submit the application form prior to submitting for a building permit. Any alterations needed to obtain the required building permit should be re-reviewed by Public Works for funding impacts prior to construction.

Who pays to replace the lead or galvanized steel service?

Under the Program, the Village will reimburse 100% of the cost to replace the lead or galvanized steel service line from the water main to the water shut off valve (b-box) typically located in the parkway, and 2/3 of the cost from the b-box to the meter, up to a $10,000 maximum reimbursement. The Village will reimburse the homeowner after the work is completed. All permit and inspection fees will be paid by the resident/applicant and are eligible in addition to the reimbursement cap of $10,000.

Who performs the work?

The work is to be performed by a plumbing contractor and sub-contractors, if required, selected by the homeowner. The contractor and sub-contractors must be licensed and bonded to work in the Village of Palatine. The contractor is required to restore all disturbances to the pre-construction condition on public property, including sidewalk removal and replacement, curb and gutter replacement, pavement removal and replacement, and all restoration, as required to complete the project. It is suggested that homeowners obtain at least three proposals.

How is the reimbursement cost calculated?

The reimbursement is calculated as follows:

  1. (Proposal Cost - Itemized Exceptions) ÷ Total Length of Water Line = Project Cost per Foot
  2. Project Cost per Foot x Length from Water Main to Existing B-Box = VOP ROW Reimbursement
  3. (Project Cost per Foot x Length from B-Box to Meter) x 2/3 = Private Reimbursement
  4. VOP ROW Reimbursement + Private Reimbursement + Permit Fees = Total Reimbursement 

The maximum reimbursement is $10,000 plus permit fees.

Who should I call if I have any questions?

If you have any questions about this program, please contact the Department of Public Works Engineering Division at (847) 705-5200 or by email at publicworks@palatine.il.us.