These high-pressure pipes run beneath NYC streets and sidewalks, feeding water lines into individual residential and commercial buildings. When performing sidewalk repairs, contractors must locate the water service connection, which is typically marked in blue paint during a utility survey. If a water main or service pipe is damaged during construction, it can cause immediate localized flooding, wash away the soil subbase under the sidewalk, and lead to rapid pavement collapse. Property owners are responsible for the water service line extending from the street main all the way into their building.
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