Jim West says what should have been a seamless home construction process has turned into a frustrating ordeal, with an unresolved water leak threatening the stability of his property and delaying essential work on his new home.
Despite reporting the issue to the city’s 311 service back on Jan. 1, West is still waiting for repairs—30 days later.
West first became aware of the leak when his neighbor sent him a test.
The first time, he said, “Don’t panic, but that’s a large leak in your yard”.
Upon inspection, he shut off the water to his home to ensure the leak was not on his side of the meter. The next morning, after noticing water continuing to flow, he promptly reported the issue to 311, expecting a swift response. However, weeks later, gallons of water continue to gush down the street, causing growing concern about structural damage.
Construction Delays and Property Damage
As West’s home is still under construction, the persistent leak is impeding progress. His landscaper has hesitated to proceed with clearing the lot due to fears that heavy equipment could worsen the damage.
“He said he could come back and fix their mess after the city repairs it, but I don’t want to pay for it twice,” West explained.
Beyond landscaping, interior work has also stalled. With the water shut off, plumbers cannot install fixtures and toilets, delaying the finalization of his new home.
“I don’t want to risk turning the water back on and causing further issues,” West said.
Growing Structural Concerns
As the leak persists, visible damage is accumulating. A slushy sinkhole has formed in the front yard, the sidewalk may be compromised, and a crack has appeared in the street. His neighbors are also voicing their concern. Rueben Lizaola says several people have contacted 311 about the leak. “It’s for sure been running for over three weeks. And we went through it through the freeze. We had so much water coming out of here, the whole street was frozen. So, it’s been very serious. And you can see how the whole yard is mush. It’s just a huge mess.”
Although he initially believed the city would address the leak within a week, he now feels the month-long delay is excessive. He acknowledges a recent freeze may have caused delays but insists that 30 days is beyond reasonable for a homeowner to wait. “I don’t know how much damage this has caused,” West admitted, voicing concerns about unseen structural issues.
City Response and Community Frustration
West’s frustrations are compounded by reports that other similar leaks in the neighborhood have already been repaired. While he isn’t present in the neighborhood daily, he trusts his neighbors’ accounts of work being completed elsewhere. “I saw a repair crew working before the end of the year further down the street, but mine hasn’t been addressed.”
Despite following the proper channels, West has received little communication from the city. He initially reported the issue to 311 and later reached out to local officials, including Council Member Mary Nan Huffman’s office, but has yet to receive an update. Frustrated by the inaction, he submitted a KPRC2 help desk ticket, as a last-ditch effort for help.
Stress of Delayed Homeownership
For West, the delay is more than an inconvenience; it’s a major source of stress. Already facing challenges from the extended rebuilding process following Hurricane Harvey, he now finds himself battling the city over much-needed repairs. “I wake up at 3:30am every morning just stressed. I have too many things going on, but this feels like the worst right now” he said.
As he awaits resolution, West has a simple message for city officials: “I hope this doesn’t happen to them. Maybe then they’d recognize the stress it causes.”
For now, West can only hope that the city prioritizes the repair before the damage worsens.
