Beware of water treatment sales tactics 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 door-to-door salespersons who want access to test the water or examine the water meters.

“Some of these individuals make false or misleading statements about water quality and/or the mandatory replacement of water meters,” says John Presta, Director of Environmental Services. “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 shows up at your door, remember the following to protect yourself from scams:

• Ask for identification. All Regional employees and authorized contractors carry photo ID.
  
  
• Did you request this house call? Regional staff will not visit without sending an official letter and/or scheduling an appointment.
  
  
• Call the visiting organization, or the Region, to confirm that the visit is legitimate.
  
  
• Don’t feel pressured to sign contracts on the spot, or to let anyone into your home.
  
  
• Never give out your personal information.

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 set by the province of Ontario.

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, and before contractors show up, you will receive an official letter from the Region of Durham notifying you of the upcoming water meter replacement or upgrade. 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.

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.