Bloomfield Township is required by the State to begin implementing cross connection surveys/inspections for all residential water customers. The purpose is to identify potential unsafe interconnections to the public water supply. The Township has contracted with HydroCorp of Troy, MI to assist in managing our Cross-Connection Control Program. HydroCorp specializes in backflow prevention education, cross-connection control program management and inspections/surveys.
What Is a Cross-Connection?
A cross-connection is a direct or potential connection between any part of the public water supply system and a source of contamination or pollution. A simple example would be a garden hose style fixture, with no form of backflow prevention, submerged in a pool. Water normally flows in one direction, from the public water system through the customer’s cold or hot water plumbing system to a faucet or other plumbing fixtures. Under certain conditions water can flow in the reverse direction. This is known as backflow and, in our hose-in-the-pool example, could cause the non-potable pool water to backflow into the resident’s drinking water, creating a hazard for the resident.
What is a Cross Connection Survey/Inspection?
A cross-connection survey will be a visual survey/inspection of exterior residential properties to detect actual and potential cross connections. A record will be made of each inspection, existing backflow devices/assemblies and corrective action if necessary. Inspection notices will be mailed to water customers approximately two weeks before the scheduled inspection date. There is no fee for the inspection and the homeowner will not be required to be home at the time of inspection. HydroCorp began performing these surveys during the summer season of 2021, and will continue through 2026, beginning this May. The Township has been divided into six zones and only one zone per year undergoes these surveys. You can reference the map to determine which year your property will be inspected.
We will be providing more information on the program in the coming months. If you have questions call DPW at 248-594-2800.