Department of Public Works
Division of Latham Water

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about the Division of Latham Water. If the information you need is not addressed here, please contact us during our business hours.

What are some of the benefits:

  • General
  • Using the System
  • Payment
  • Advanced Features
  • Security

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Latham Water adds chlorine to the finished water as a disinfectant, as required by NYS Department of Health. Concentration of chlorine vary throughout the Town, depending on location, water temperature and seasonal variations.

There are several reasons for low pressure including water main breaks or internal home plumbing problems. If you do experience low pressure call Latham Water (518) 783-2750 and we will help to determine the cause.

Discoloration of water can result from many reasons:

  • Red or rust color could result from a water main break or from an open fire hydrant in your neighborhood.
  • Milky water could be the result of additional air within the water system, from a water main break or other system shut down.
  • Internal plumbing and fixtures can also discolor the water.

Yes - Call (518) 783-2750. If we are unable to satisfy your inquiry over the telephone, personnel will be sent to investigate your problem. We have staff available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist you.

We do not add fluoride to our water, however, there is a trace of fluoride in the District's source water.

Bills are mailed out semi-annually:

  • North Section: February and August
  • Central Section: March and September
  • South Section: April and October

Our average residential customer uses approximately 77,677 gallons of water.

Check Tax Department page for more detailed dates.

A final meter reading is taken or through property transfer-deed from the Assessor's office. A final meter reading should be requested by telephone by the seller, realtor or attorney.

Cards are mailed semi-annually:

  • North Section: Blue Card - December and June
  • Central Section: Red Card - January and July
  • South Section: Green Card - February and August

It is indicated on the front of the card to return the card in ten days so your next bill is as accurate as possible.

If Latham Water does not receive your meter reading card back, your water usage is estimated for the upcoming bill. We will also accept readings over the phone by calling our office. Meterman appointments are available for those who are unable to read their meter.

Yes, Latham Water can install a water meter capable of providing automatic meter reading. It uses a low-power (typically less than 100 miliwatts) radio frequency to send your meter reading to a device our staff uses to retrieve that information. There is no cost to you to replace your existing meter as long as your current meter is in reasonable condition. Call our office to schedule your appointment to replace your meter.

Meters belong to the property owner. However, we can assist you with the repair or replacement of a leaking meter. Call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our metermen.

The water service, from the curb stop (the shut-off valve located near the edge of the road right-of-way) into your house is the responsibility of the homeowner. If you are unable to determine where the problem is, Latham Water can send staff to assist you.

With more than 3,939 fire hydrants in our water system, we ask for your help by clearing snow from around the fire hydrant near your home.

Neither the Latham Water District nor the Town of Colonie is affiliated with companies such as HomeServe USA. Latham Water is not promoting, nor is it discouraging participation in a program such as HomeServe USA's. It is entirely your decision - similar to choosing to select a buyer-protection plan for your home computer purchase. If, however, you are considering participation in such an insurance program, the Latham Water District can provide you with information about your water service's age and material of construction, soils materials in your area, any break history, etc. It is important for you to know that as a resident of the Latham Water District, you are responsible for the repair and maintenance of your water service. Your responsibility begins at the curb stop and continues from the curb stop into your home.

Yes, a Sprinkler Permit Application form. The cost of the Permit is $60. You may download it here or you may pick one up at the Latham Water District office.

The administration fee represent a portion of the cost for processing water bills including meter reading, printing and mailing meter reading cards, and printing and postage for usage bills. The fee for residential properties is $10 and $30 for non-residential. The minimum usage fee for residential customers was eliminated.

Contact

Public Operations Center
First Floor
347 Old Niskayuna Road
Latham, NY 12110-2290