What is one consequence of failing to regularly assess water infrastructure?

Failing to regularly assess water infrastructure can lead to significant consequences, particularly the potential for service disruptions and increased repair costs. Regular assessments are crucial for identifying wear and tear, leaks, and other issues that may not be immediately visible. Without this proactive approach, minor problems can escalate into major failures, resulting in service interruptions for consumers. Additionally, when infrastructure issues go unaddressed, the cost of repairs can grow substantially, as emergency repairs are often more expensive than maintenance carried out in a planned manner.

Inadequate assessments may also compromise the quality of water distribution, which can have ramifications for public health. By neglecting these evaluations, utilities risk both financial implications for repair and the potential dissatisfaction of the community due to unforeseen service outages.