Cal. Civ. Code § 20.12
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Operative Text
(a) Where water is obtained from a public waterworks system approved by the required State authorities, it shall be distributed by means of pipes as required. (b) Where water is obtained from a private source, such as a well, spring or cistern, the source may not be polluted or contaminated nor may it be situated, constructed or maintained in such manner that it may become polluted or contaminated or rendered injurious to health.
Under 28 Pa. Code § 20.12, residential water supplies must come from an approved public waterworks system distributed through proper piping, or, if drawn from a private source such as a well, spring, or cistern, that source must be free from pollution and contamination and must be sited, built, and maintained so that it cannot become a health hazard. The rule sets baseline standards for both public and private water supply arrangements. It applies regardless of whether the dwelling is connected to a municipal system or relies on an on-site water source.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to 28 Pa. Code § 20.12 generally ensure that any connection to a public waterworks system uses properly installed piping approved by the relevant state authorities. Where a private water source such as a well or spring serves the property, compliant operators take steps to prevent contamination — including attention to the source's location, construction, and ongoing maintenance. Routine inspection and documentation of private water sources are practices commonly associated with meeting this standard.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
28 Pa. Code § 20.12 establishes that tenants are entitled to a water supply that is either drawn from a state-approved public system with proper piping or sourced from a private supply that is free from contamination and health risks. If a tenant observes signs of water contamination or believes a private water source is improperly maintained, general enforcement paths include notifying the local health department or housing authority and contacting a tenant-rights organization for guidance. Tenants may also be able to raise a violation of this provision as a defense or counterclaim in relevant housing proceedings.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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