Glossary

Overflow

Overflow
A spill or flood of wastewater (sewage) or stormwater. Wet weather overflows occur during heavy rain, when the volume of stormwater exceeds the capacity of our wastewater pipes. Dry weather overflows occur most commonly when a private drain is blocked.

Plumbosolvency

Plumbosolvency
The ability of a solvent, usually water, to dissolve lead and other heavy metals, for instance in private plumbing.

Point of supply

Point of supply
The point where our network connects with a private network. This is where the responsibility for maintaining pipes and equipment switches from us to you.

Potable water

Potable water
Water that is safe to drink or use for food preparation.

Private network

Private network
All pipes, grinders, tanks, pumps, backflow prevention devices and other assets on the customer side of the point of supply.

Procurement

Procurement
Buying or obtaining goods or services from an external source, often via a tendering or bidding process.

PRV

Pressure-reducing valve
A valve used on private pipework when water pressure is too high (normally pressure is about 200 kPa). Water flows into the valve, reducing the pressure to the required setting. You can install the valve yourself or engage a plumber.

Rates rebate

Rates rebate
Auckland Council’s rates rebate scheme helps people whose rates are high in relation to their income. To learn more, see the Auckland Council website. You do not need to contact Watercare.

Resource consent

Resource consent
If you wish to build or use your land in a way that does not comply with the rules of the district or regional plans, you will need resource consent from Auckland Council.

Retail pipe

Retail pipe
Our transmission and retail pipes carry water or wastewater in the public network. A transmission pipe is a major pipe (usually 300 mm or more in diameter, and a retail pipe (usually less than 300 mm in diameter) is local – similar to arterial roads and side roads.