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Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I call if I have a sewer problem?

If you live south of Lake Macatawa or the Macatawa/Black River, please contact the Holland Board of public Works (HBPW) Water/Wastewater Services Department at 616.355.1643 during normal business hours.  After hours or on weekends, please call 616.355.1500.  We will gladly come and check the public sewer main to make sure there is not a problem there.  It is also advised that you contact a plumber as well by looking in the phone book.  If there is not a problem in the sanitary sewer, there is likely a blockage in your private sewer service.  Please see our page dedicated to sewer backings for more information.

If you live north of Lake Macatawa or the Macatawa/Black River, please contact the Holland Township Department of Public Works at 616.396.1891.

Who do we notify if we have a chemical spill?

Please contact the Pollution Control Department at 616.355.1275. If you enter voicemail, press "O" and inform the attendant. Have your name, company, location, and type of chemical spilled available when you call.

How do I arrange a tour of the HBPW facilities?

Tours are granted on a case-by-case basis. Contact Customer Service at 616.355.1500. Ask to speak with the Customer Services Supervisor.

What do I do if I have a question about my utility bill?

Call Customer Service at 616.355.1500, Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 5:00pm.

Who do I call if I have a problem or question about my water?

If you are a HBPW water customer, then call the Water Department at 616.355.1643 between 7:30am to 4:00pm. If there is an emergency after normal operating hours, then call 616.355.1500.

Do you offer a Direct Payment Plan?

Yes, call Customer Service at 616.355.1500 for a Direct Payment form.

How do I cancel my Direct Payment plan?

Please cancel your Direct Payment plan in writing. Include your signature, your HBPW account number, your service address, and a contact telephone number.

Does HBPW accept payment over the telephone?

No, Holland Board of Public Works (HBPW) does not accept payments over the telephone at this time.

Will I be charged a late fee if I miss a payment?

Yes, unless your due date falls on the weekend or on a U.S. holiday.

On what days are HBPW offices closed for holidays?

Emergency assistance is always available by calling 616.355.1500. The business office is closed on the days below to honor the following holidays:

New Years Day Friday, January 1, 2010
Memorial Day Monday, May 31, 2010
Independence Day Monday, July 5, 2010
Labor Day Monday, September 6, 2010
Thanksgiving Day Thursday, November 25, 2010
Day After Thanksgiving Friday, November 26, 2010
Christmas Eve Thursday, December 23, 2010
Christmas Day Friday, December 24, 2010

What tips do you have for operating a generator?

  • Read all manufacturer instructions and be sure that you understand them.
  • Properly ground the generator. See the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Ventilate the generator. Carbon monoxide emitted from the generator could be fatal.
  • Protect yourself from dangerous shocks by making sure your hands are dry and you are standing in a dry place whenever you operate the generator.
  • Protect your appliances by disconnecting all appliances and lights before you begin operating the generator.
  • Use the right extension cord.

Does HBPW offer a Budget Billing Plan?

Yes, the Holland Board of Public Works offers a Budget Billing Plan.  Budget Billing is a monthly payment plan that allows you to pay your HBPW utility bill in equal payments throughout the year.

Do you have any home insulation energy efficency tips?.

  • Adding insulation to a poorly insulated house is an effective means of saving energy in the home, because it provides a heat barrier around the house.
  • Purchase insulation materials by the "R" factor. In general, R-30 is recommended for ceilings and R-13 if for walls.

Do you have any door/window energy efficiency tips.?

  • Prevent winter heat loss and summer heat gain with insulating dual-page window or infrared absorbing window film.
  • Draperies also provide effective insulation, especially those that are thermal-lined.
  • Reduce heat loss by weather stripping all doors and windows and caulking openings around electric, plumbing and lighting fixtures.
  • Check ductwork for air leaks. Repair as need.

Do you have any fire hydrant accessibility tips?

  • Know where your nearest fire hydrant is located.
  • Keep fire hydrants free of ALL obstacles, including fences, plants, hedges, and brush. 
  • Always maintain a 3-foot clearance space around all fire hydrants.
  • Please see our informative page on Hydrant Usage for more info about our public fire hydrants.

What if I have more questiosn related to the water saystem?

If you have more questions about the HBPW water system, please see our specific water system FAQ.