Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply for water service?
You should apply for water service before you begin clearing and filling your lot - preferably at the time of purchase. By doing so, your application will be processed and the documentation you will require to obtain a building permit can be prepared. Also, ASA Potrero can locate water lines on or near your property to avoid potential damage and expense. There is no cost to file an application.
How do I apply for a water connection to my property?
Download and complete the application form, information sheets and agreements posted on this website. Fax to 2654-4982 or or scan and email them along with other required documents.
How long will it be until a meter is installed?
Your application will be processed and reviewed by the Board of Directors at the next meeting. The connection fee will be determined at this time. Upon receipt of your payment, and a site inspection to ensure culvert has been installed, your connection will be scheduled. The Board meets once a month and installation normally is affected within a few days, elements permitting.
Why must I install culvert?
Culvert is necessary in order to protect ASA Potrero water mains and to avoid compromising drainage.
How much is the connection fee?
The basic fee for connection is ¢ 93,635.
How do I pay?
Payment can be made by deposit or transfer to Banco de Costa Rica, Flamingo, Cuenta Corriente 325-0000570-3 in Colones. Please ensure your name and or ASA account number are recorded on the deposit slip or in the "motivo/reason" if transferring funds. For transfers from Banco Nacional, SINPE # 15201325000057035, cedula # 3-002-211310.
Why was my payment not credited to my account?
Payments are processed from the information you submit to the bank. If your account number is not included, the automated system will attempt to identify you by name. If the name is absent or incorrect we do not know the origin of the payment.
Do I need to fax or email proof of payment?
No, as long as your account number is on the deposit slip or in the "motivo" in the case of a transfer, it is not necessary. You can confirm payment was posted by checking this website the day following your payment.
How do I get a "water availability letter" or "Constancia"?
The process for obtaining a Constancia is identical to a water application.
How do I pay my monthly bills?
Water Bills are delivered to Banco de Costa Rica on the first day of every month. Payment is as above. Just give the teller your name or ASA account number. If you wish to determine how much your bill is, you can use this website to avoid a trip to the bank.
Why has my water been cut off?
Payment is due before the 15th of each month. On the 16th every overdue account will be sent a notice by email or on paper. Overdue account holders will be given 5 days to bring the account current. On the 22nd cutoff orders will be issued to remaining overdue accounts. A disconnection fee of ¢ 3,450 will be charged for every disconnection. Water will be reconnected when proof of payment is received by ASA Potrero. A re-connection fee of ¢ 3,450 will be charged for re-connection.
ASA Potrero has no desire to interrupt water service. But there is a cost of delivery for water and other services provided by ASA Potrero. Your water payments are critical to support these services. Failure to pay on time creates disruption and frustration for water users and additional, unnecessary work for ASA Potrero. Your understanding and cooperation will be appreciated.
How can I get the details of my billing?
From the home page, click "Billing Details" and enter your ASA account number. The display will show consumption, amounts for each of the four rates, balance forward and the total amount due. You may print this page if you wish to keep a record of your billing details.
Why is my bill so high?
Water is currently billed on cost-recovery basis at rates determined by ARESEP. If your bill is abnormally high, it is either because there is an amount carried forward from previous months, an erroneous reading, or a leak inside your property. When advised, ASA will check your meter and your account. If you have a leak within, the responsibility is yours.
From time to time during construction, ASA's water lines are broken by heavy equipment or construction workers or the meter is rendered inaccessible by construction material. This is the responsibility of the property owner. A service restoration fee may have been charged to your account.
Why do I get billed when my water is shut off?
Whether you use water or not, ASA Potrero must maintain the delivery system that brings water to your meter. The basic rate is billed monthly to all accounts.
How do I know the water is good?
ASA Potrero has the water tested every few months by AyA, the national water agency. The results of the most recent analysis are posted on this website.
Why does my water pressure fluctuate?
ASA Potrero does not currently have a pressurization system. Water is pumped directly from the wells into the network. Pressure depends on consumption at any given time. During peak use periods, pressure tends to be lower than normal. Also, when water mains are damaged, pressure will drop.
Why do I have to install a water storage tank?
Installing your own water tank will ensure that you do not go without water when the power is interrupted or when repairs must be made to the system. It also permits you to install an internal pressurization system.
How is sewage handled in Surfside?
Traditionally, sewage or "black water" has been handled by individual septic systems on each lot or project. These systems must be designed by a Costa Rican architect and approved by the College of Engineers. Lately, projects are increasing in size and scope and today's trend is toward mini-treatment plants that cause waste to decompose more rapidly and produce water that can be used for irrigation. These plants are cost-effective and environmentally friendly and ASA recommends their consideration.
Why are there water mains inside my property line?
The physical plant was installed many years ago when there was little development and boundaries were indistinct . Since that time, roads have shifted and property lines have migrated. ASA Potrero has a long term goal of re-locating all lines to public property, but it is an expensive undertaking and will take time. We request your understanding and support in this matter.
How can I avoid incurring the cost of restoration of service?
Dial 2654-4982 before you dig! ASA's field technician will visit your site and locate water mains for you or your builder. This should be done before clearing and filling lots to avoid damaging water mains and incurring the restoration fee. Please bear in mind that interruption of service to the entire community is the inevitable consequence of a broken water main.
Where can I get information about living in Surfside, Playa Potrero?
The Surfside Residents' Association will be happy to assist in this area. Visit their website at http://www.surfsideassociation.com.
