What are the Construction Inspection fees?

Construction inspection fees include meter vault inspection, connections for domestic water taps or T connections, sewer connections, meter relocations, fire service reconfigurations, and manhole inspections. Additionally, these fees cover inspections related to water, sewer, and stormwater mains.

Why were these fees established?

Construction inspection fees are designed to cover the complete costs associated with the review and inspection processes, ensuring that these services are not financially supported by other revenues generated by DC Water.

DC Water previously charged for inspections through a process involving a reimbursable customer deposit or estimate, which was held as collateral while inspection work was being completed. Once the inspection was complete, DC Water reimbursed the customer for the portion of their payment that exceeded actual costs (based on time and materials). If costs exceeded DC Water’s initial estimate, the customer was charged the additional cost.  

Fixed fees were introduced to align with industry standards, streamline payment processes, eliminate reimbursement complexities, and enhance transparency for customers.

When are these fees charged?  

During the plan review process, an invoice will be generated by DC Water Permit Operations. It is essential that payment is completed prior to the release of the plans and the issuance of the Water and Sewer Availability Certificates (WSAC). 

When is payment due?

Before the requested information can be released, a valid payment1 must be submitted to DC Water.

If a check is returned due to insufficient funds, errors on checks, or missing information, the payment is deemed invalid. DC Water will charge a bad check fee for checks returned due to insufficient funds. 

How do I pay the fees charged?

DC Water has a payment drop box at 125 O Street, SE, situated near the delivery area of the DC Water Headquarters Building (HQO) and the former O Pumping Station. Payments can be submitted Monday’s – Friday’s, between 6 AM and 10 PM.

Fees

To see the fees click here.