For Owners of Temporarily or Partially Shut Down Business, Church or School Buildings Private Water Systems
Water held unused in building pipes while businesses and/or activities are shut down or have unused floors or sections may become stagnant. Certain conditions may develop increasing the risk for the growth and spread of waterborne bacteria, such as Legionella or biofilm, in the building piping. Disinfectant in the water, such as chlorine, will likely dissipate or become undetectable.
Actions are necessary to ensure the water in the building is safe as well as taste and odor free before resuming normal water use. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has very detailed information on reactivating plumbing systems after dormant conditions on its website at:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html
4-16-20 Building Plumbing Community Flyer