Region of Durham Advises Residents on Unofficial Water Treatment Sales Approaches
Residents in Durham Region, including South Oshawa, have been reminded by the Region that it does not sell or endorse water filters or water treatment equipment. According to the Region, this reminder was issued after residents reported encounters with door-to-door salespersons and phone callers offering to test water or install water filtration systems.
The Region states these sales tactics are not associated with the municipal water system or its staff. It also advises that there is no requirement for homeowners to purchase or install water filtration systems in response to current work being carried out by the Region.
According to the Region, employees or authorized contractors do not visit homes without a pre-arranged appointment or the resident's consent. All such personnel reportedly carry photo identification. The Region adds that staff do not visit unless a formal letter is sent ahead of time and/or an appointment is made. Current infrastructure work in South Oshawa involves installing cathodic protection on watermains to reduce corrosion and extend the lifespan of the system, according to the Region. This renewal process does not require homeowners to install additional filtration or water treatment systems.
To help residents avoid scams, the Region advises that anyone claiming to represent the municipality should be asked for identification. Residents are also advised to check whether a house call was requested or officially announced. The Region notes that its staff will not request entry to homes or present contracts without prior official notice. Residents are reminded not to feel pressured to agree to visits, sign contracts, or give out personal information.
The Region says residents can verify any visit or call by contacting the Region directly. Information on water quality testing is available through the Region’s Works Department or via online Water Quality Reports.
Mike Hubble, Director of Environmental Services for the Region of Durham, stated, “The Region provides safe drinking water to residents through the municipal water supply system, meeting Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards. Our water is monitored and tested continuously—24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year—by trained professionals who follow strict provincial regulations. It does not require further filtration or monitoring at residents’ expense.”
Further information about consumer rights regarding door-to-door sales is available on the Ontario government’s website.