Who Is Responsible for the Water Line?
Where the utility's responsibility ends and the homeowner's begins — and what that means when a problem appears.
In the Knoxville area, the water utility (commonly KUB — Knoxville Utilities Board) is generally responsible for the water main and the water meter itself. The homeowner is generally responsible for the service line that runs from the meter to the house, and for all plumbing inside the home. The water meter is typically the transition point between utility-owned infrastructure and homeowner-owned plumbing. However, exact responsibility boundaries may vary by utility provider, meter location, and service agreement — so always verify with your utility.
Why This Matters
When a water line problem appears — a leak, a drop in pressure, or a wet spot in the yard — knowing who is responsible determines who you call and who pays for the repair. If the problem is on the utility's side, the utility may handle it at no cost to you. If it is on your side, you are generally responsible for the repair. Calling the wrong party first can cost you time and money.
How It Generally Works in the Knoxville Area
Here is the general model for water line responsibility in areas served by KUB: The utility owns and maintains the water main running under the street or easement. The utility also owns and maintains the water meter — typically located in a meter box near the property line or curb. The homeowner owns and maintains the service line that runs from the meter to the house. The homeowner also owns and maintains all plumbing inside the house. The meter is the transition point. In general: before the meter = utility responsibility. After the meter = homeowner responsibility. However, this model can vary. Some utilities have different responsibility boundaries. Some meters are located inside the home. Some service agreements specify different terms. Always verify the exact boundary with your utility provider before assuming responsibility.
Water Line Responsibility — General Diagram
Water Main
Utility-owned
Water Meter
Transition point
Service Line
Homeowner-owned
House Plumbing
Homeowner-owned
This diagram shows a general responsibility model. Exact boundaries may vary by utility provider, meter location, and service agreement. Verify with your utility.
What the Homeowner Can Check
- Where your water meter is located (curb, property line, or inside the home)
- Which utility provider serves your property (KUB or another provider)
- Whether the problem appears to be before or after the meter
- Whether your service agreement or property deed specifies different responsibility terms
Who to Contact
KUB (Knoxville Utilities Board)
For issues that appear to involve utility-owned infrastructure — the water main, the meter, or the connection before the meter.
Visit siteA Licensed Plumber
For issues on the homeowner side — the service line from the meter to the house, or any interior plumbing.
Learn moreTennessee 811
Before any excavation on your property, call 811 to have underground utilities marked.
Visit siteWhat Not to Do
- Do not excavate on your property without calling 811 first
- Do not attempt to repair or alter utility-owned equipment, including the meter
- Do not assume the responsibility boundary without verifying with your utility provider
- Do not ignore a wet spot or water pressure drop — it may indicate a service line leak on your side
Still not sure who is responsible or what to do next?
Ask our AI Plumber — describe the problem and get guidance on whether it is likely on your side or the utility side.
Ask the AI PlumberVerify current requirements directly with the applicable authority.
Requirements may differ depending on whether the property is inside the City of Knoxville, elsewhere in Knox County, or served by another utility. Homeowners should verify current requirements with the applicable permitting authority before beginning work.
Common Questions
What if I'm not sure whether the leak is on my side or the utility's side?
Start by checking your water meter. If the meter is still spinning when all water is off inside the house, water is flowing somewhere — and if the leak is after the meter, it is likely on your side. If you are unsure, contact KUB to verify the meter location and responsibility boundary, and a plumber to check your service line.
Does KUB repair the water line from the meter to my house?
Generally, no. The service line from the meter to the house is typically the homeowner's responsibility. KUB is responsible for the main and the meter. Verify with KUB for your specific situation.
What if the meter is inside my house?
If the meter is inside the home, the responsibility boundary may be different. Some utilities still consider the meter the transition point; others may have different rules. Verify with your utility provider.
If the problem involves your home's plumbing, The Classic Plumber can help.
We diagnose before we recommend — and we tell you when the issue is on the utility's side.