At OCWA, our mission is to provide safe, reliable water to the community we serve. When a water main break occurs, our crews respond quickly to make repairs and reduce disruption as much as possible. Our commitment does not end with fixing the pipe; restoring lawns, driveways, and roads is also a priority. Here is what you can expect if work is needed in your neighborhood:
•After each water main break repair, OCWA crews begin by completing rough restoration, which includes filling the excavated area back to its previous level.
•For lawn repairs, we rough grade with removed material or stone to level the surface then we typically allow at least 2 weeks for the soil to settle before an OCWA team returns to add topsoil and seed. This helps provide a more lasting restoration.
•Roads and driveways are temporarily patched with cold-patch asphalt immediately after the repair so the area can remain usable. This cold patch may look uneven with tire or roll marks. Permanent repaving is completed later by an OCWA contractor.
•Concrete surfaces are permanently restored by OCWA after the repair area has had time to settle.
During mild weather in late spring, summer, and early fall, permanent restoration is typically completed within four weeks. In late fall and winter, restoration must wait until spring arrives, and conditions improve. This helps ensure the repairs hold properly and that asphalt plants and topsoil suppliers are operating.
No matter when a break occurs, please be assured that OCWA or an OCWA contractor will return to complete the final restoration. We track every repair site carefully and will make sure each area is properly restored.
We appreciate your patience and understanding while this work is completed.
Thank you for allowing us to serve you as we work each day to keep safe, reliable water flowing!
Restoration Process FAQ