Water Main Breaks in Homewood

The Village of Homewood owns and maintains approximately 64 miles? of water main which are the underground pipes that distribute water throughout the community. Due to aging materials, shifting ground, and/or frozen pipes, Homewood experiences water main breaks each year. While most breaks can be repaired quickly with routine fixes, more complex breaks sometimes require additional time. The Village understands that water main breaks and disruptions in service are inconvenient to residents and businesses. Please know that our Public Works crews work diligently to restore service as quickly as possible.

How do I know if there is a Water Main Break on my block?

You can sign up to receive text alerts through Rave Safety Mobile alerts or download the Village-branded app in your phone’s app store. 

Rave Mobile Safety / Smart 911 Sign up: https://www.smart911.com/smart911/registration/registrationLanding.action 

Apple Mobile App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/home-sweet-homewood/id6741825926 

Android Mobile App Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.govoutreach.homewoodvillageil 

What Is a Water Main Break?
A water main break occurs any time water escapes from a main. Depending on the severity, this can look like water bubbling up from the ground or a small stream flowing into a storm sewer. If you notice flowing water in an unusual location—especially when the pavement is otherwise dry—please report it. Contact the Public Works Department during regular business hours (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–3:30 p.m.) at 708-206-3470. After hours, please call the Homewood Police Department’s non-emergency line at 708-206-3420. If a break is confirmed, a utility locate request will be submitted to J.U.L.I.E. and a Public Works crew will be dispatched.

Will I Be Notified?
Most breaks affect only a single street or block. If the leak is minor, it may be clamped without requiring a shutdown. If water service must be shut off, Public Works staff will notify residents door-to-door. If no one is home, a door hanger will be left with details. Once the repair is complete, you’ll know service has been restored when water is flowing again from your faucet.

Is the Water Safe?
Homewood maintains a rigorous water-quality testing program and has an outstanding record of water safety. Monthly samples are taken from multiple locations and tested by a certified laboratory before being submitted to the IEPA. The most recent Water Quality Report can be found on the Village of Homewood website.

Why Is My Water Discolored or Pressure Low?

Even after flushing, residents may experience discolored water or low pressure for several hours. The discoloration is typically iron released from the main during the break. While not considered a health hazard, you may wish to avoid drinking the water until it clears. Low pressure is often due to debris in faucet aerators or cartridges. We recommend cleaning aerators and running cold water to help clear your service line.

Should I Be Concerned About Lead?
Lead and copper levels in Homewood water are well below legal limits. However, water main repairs can disturb service lines or household plumbing that contain lead. To reduce any potential exposure, run your cold tap water for at least two minutes after repairs are completed. Additional resources about lead in water are available on the Village website.

Will My Parkway Be Repaired?
Repair work often requires digging into the street or parkway to reach the pipe. If any damage occurs to your driveway apron, parkway, or landscaping during a water main break, Public Works will restore the area. If repairs take place in winter, restoration will be scheduled for early spring once conditions improve.