Emergency Main Water Line Repair in San Antonio
Flooded yard, no water or sudden low pressure? The first question is whose side of the meter the break is on. Call Stark at (210) 898-9754 and we’ll help you figure it out, then repair what is yours.
Who is responsible for a broken main water line?
In San Antonio, SAWS maintains the water main and the service line up to the water meter. The line from the meter to your home is the property owner’s responsibility. If the leak is on the street side, call SAWS at 210-704-7297. If it is on your side, call a licensed plumber such as Stark at (210) 898-9754.
What to do if water is flooding your yard
- Shut off your main valve. Usually at the house or in the meter box. Turn clockwise.
- Watch the meter. If it still moves with your valve closed, the leak is before the meter.
- Call the right party. Before the meter: SAWS, 210-704-7297. After: Stark, (210) 898-9754.
- Mark and photograph. Photograph the wet area and note where the line runs. Do not dig near gas or electric lines.
- Turn off the water heater. If water to the house is off, switch off its power or gas to protect it.
What people worry about most, answered
“Is this the city’s problem or mine?”
SAWS owns the main and the line up to the meter. You own the line from the meter to the house. We’ll help you tell which it is.
“Will you dig up my whole yard?”
We locate the break first to dig only where needed, and explain trenchless options if they fit your line.
“What will it cost?”
Depth, length, soil and what is above the line all change the price. You get a written estimate before work begins.
“Can I get help paying?”
SAWS’s Plumbers to People program helps eligible low-income homeowners with emergency leak repair. Call 210-704-SAVE.
Signs of a broken main water supply line
- Wet, soggy or sinking patches in the yard with no rain
- Sudden pressure loss or low flow at every tap
- Water meter spinning with all fixtures off
- Unusually high water bill
- Sound of running water near the meter or foundation
Repair or replacement of a damaged service line
A short, localized break can often be repaired. A line that has failed repeatedly, is corroded or is badly aged may be worth replacing. We’ll explain both in the written estimate. Related: water line repair and replacement, leak detection.
Who handles what
| Part of the line | Who is responsible | Who to call |
|---|---|---|
| Water main in the street | SAWS | 210-704-7297 |
| Service line to the meter | SAWS | 210-704-7297 |
| Meter to your home | Property owner | Stark, (210) 898-9754 |
| Plumbing inside the home | Property owner | Stark, (210) 898-9754 |
Based on SAWS’s guidance that it handles lines up to the meter. Confirm for your property with SAWS. Renters: contact your landlord first.
How a call with Stark works
- You describe the problem. A photo by text helps.
- We tell you what we think is happening and the next step.
- You get a written estimate before any work begins.
- Work starts only after you approve it.
Check us before you trust us
- Texas plumbers are licensed by the TSBPE. Look up any plumber, including us, at tsbpe.texas.gov.
- Ask for the license number and a written estimate. Walk away from anyone who won’t give both.
- Our office: 1011 Ada St, San Antonio, TX 78223.
Serving San Antonio and nearby neighborhoods
We repair customer-side main water lines for homes and businesses across San Antonio, TX.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for a broken main water line?
SAWS handles the main and service line up to the meter. The line from the meter to the house is the owner’s responsibility.
What causes underground water line leaks?
Age, corrosion, shifting soil, tree roots, high pressure, and damage from digging or freezing.
What should I do if water is flooding my yard?
Shut off your main valve and watch the meter. If it still moves, the leak is before the meter, so call SAWS at 210-704-7297. Otherwise call Stark at (210) 898-9754.
How do I know if my main line is leaking?
Look for a wet yard, sudden low pressure, a spinning meter with all water off, or a jump in your water bill.
Can the line be fixed without digging up the yard?
Sometimes. It depends on the line and where it runs. We’ll tell you the options after locating the break.
Is the shut-off valve my responsibility?
The valve at your house is yours. If you can’t find or turn it, call us.
Broken main line? Call Stark.
Call or text with a short description and a photo if you can. We’ll tell you what we think is going on and what the next step is.