Beware of new water treatment sales tactics being used in Durham

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham would like to remind residents that the Region does not sell or endorse water filters or treatment equipment. The Region has been contacted by concerned residents inquiring about phone calls from salespersons who want access to their home to test the water or inspect the water service. In the past, salespersons have gone door-to-door making similar claims.

“Several residents have contacted the Region regarding phone calls they received from people claiming to be from the Region’s Water Department trying to arrange an appointment to inspect the pipes,” says Susan Siopis, Commissioner of Works. “These phone calls are not from the Region of Durham. The Region provides clean, safe drinking water, which meets provincial water quality standards. Our water undergoes daily monitoring and testing, and does not require further filtration or monitoring at residents’ expense.”

If someone calls you or shows up at your door, remember the following to protect yourself from scams:

• Did you request this call or visit? Regional staff will not visit without sending an official letter to schedule an appointment.
  
  
• Never give out your personal information.
  
  
• Call the Region to confirm that the phone call or visit is legitimate.
  
  
• If you receive a phone call, don’t feel pressured to agree to a home visit.
  
  
• If they come to your door, don’t feel pressured to sign contracts on the spot, or to let anyone into your home.
  
  
• If they come to your door, ask for identification. All Regional employees and authorized contractors carry photo ID.

The Regional Municipality of Durham provides safe drinking water to residents through the municipal water supply system, meeting Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards. The quality and safety of the Region's water is confirmed at an accredited laboratory, which is licensed by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change–a requirement of the Ontario Drinking Water Regulations.

Information on water quality testing is available from the Region by contacting the Works Department at 905-668-7711, and from our Water Quality Reports, available online at www.durham.ca/water.

The Region of Durham has established a Residential Meter Replacement/Upgrade program with its contractor, Neptune Technology Group, to replace or upgrade the meters in homes at no charge to residents. If the meter at your premises requires replacement or an upgrade, you will receive an official letter from the Region of Durham notifying you of the upcoming water meter replacement or upgrade before contractors show up. You will also receive a letter from Neptune Technology Group advising you of how to book your appointment. The letter requests that residents set up an appointment with the contractor. Neptune installers will arrive on the arranged date; they are uniformed, carry ID, and are highly skilled to ensure a professional installation.

For more information, visit the website at http://www.durham.ca/works.asp?nr=/departments/works/water/homewatertreatment.htm&setFooter=/includes/worksFooter.inc.

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