Water Authority Urges Local Residents to Beware of Water Agency Imposters

The San Diego County Water Authority is warning residents countywide to watch out for individuals posing as employees of the San Diego Water Authority or employees of a local water utility. Typically, these imposters arrive without an appointment and try to gain entry into a home by saying they have been sent to check the home’s water system or test water quality. The imposter’s intent may be theft or fraud.

The Water Authority is issuing this warning after receiving a report of a possible imposter approaching homes in Santee claiming to be a San Diego Water Authority employee. There is no governmental agency called the San Diego Water Authority. This person may target Hispanic homeowners, especially new homeowners. Concerned individuals can call the Water Authority at (858) 522-6600.

The Water Authority and its member agencies are not responsible for fixing problems or testing inside private residences and rarely have reason to ask for entry. Residents are advised that if anyone claiming to be a water utility employee comes to their home they should refuse entry and contact their local water agency.

A legitimate water agency employee will have proper identification, be willing to show it and provide a supervisor’s phone number at the agency for verification. Any supposed water agency employee who refuses to wait while the water agency is contacted for verification should be considered a fraud and police should be notified promptly.