Denver Water defines a “scrape-off” as the redevelopment of an existing property and includes one of the following:
- Full demolition of a structure, or
- Renovation that impacts or replaces internal plumbing.
Depending on the construction activities underway, which one applies to you?
If the original tap date is 1950 or older:
The tap must be cut off at the main and the water meter must be returned to Denver Water. All non-copper components of the service line shall be replaced from the water main to the first copper or brass fitting within the structure and the tap cut must be witnessed by Denver Water. See Denver Water Engineering Standards Chapter 3.18 for more information.
If the original tap date is newer than 1950:
Depending on the size of the tap, location, alignment, and the water demand needed to serve the new structure, the tap may be reusable. Any tap that will be reused must remain metered and adhere to current Denver Water Engineering Standards.
For meters located outside the structure:
If the tap has been approved for reuse, the meter must remain accessible and in-line during demolition and construction. The meter setting may require corrections to meet current Denver Water Engineering Standards. Prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, call to schedule the final meter pit inspection at 303-628-6701.
If the new structure requires a larger tap and service line:
The existing tap must be cut within 60 days of demolition and the water meter must be returned to Denver Water. Prior to beginning construction of the new structure, call Meter Inspections at 303-628-6701 to schedule verification of placement of the new tap and meter pit.
For meters located inside the structure to be demolished:
The meter must be moved by the owner to an outside meter pit prior to demolition. The new outside meter pit must adhere to current Denver Water Engineering Standards. Call Meter Inspections at 303-628-6701 for construction information and for final inspection of the meter pit.
Or, the meter can be removed after the tap has been cut and witnessed by Denver Water.
Even if a non-copper service line is left undisturbed by renovation work, Denver Water encourages the customer to replace the service line with copper because it will reduce the risk of lead exposure, which can have significant health impacts. Any tap and service line that will be reused must remain metered and meet current Denver Water Engineering Standards. If a non-copper service line is disturbed by renovation work, due to the health and safety impacts of non-copper water service lines, and in accordance with Denver Water Operating Rules 9.04.2 and 9.04.3, the tap and service line will need to be replaced.
Policy revised June 18, 2019.