The Water Leak Pilot was developed through partnerships with community-based organizations and local partners, with the support of state partners. It was established to reduce water and energy waste and the financial burden associated with water leaks while looking at the water-energy nexus (the relationship between water used for energy production and the energy consumed to extract, purify, deliver, heat/cool, treat, and dispose of water). Aging infrastructure and older homes can contribute to energy and water waste, as well as public health concerns. Overall, water infrastructure and premise plumbing leaks are costly for residents and community water suppliers and may impact overall water affordability. 

The goals of this program were to increase community education about water leaks, share tips for water and energy savings, conduct household water audits, and provide funding for supply-side household plumbing repairs. In addition, all pilot participants received free Kohler fixtures and households with children under the age of 19 or pregnant person were eligible for Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Healthy Homes Program for lead and assessment and abatement. If you want to find out about potential sources of lead in your home and how to reduce risks, visit Michigan.gov/MiLeadSafe.