Spartan Plumbing is encouraging Northglenn homeowners to secure their exposed waterlines after a recent string of backflow valve thefts across the Denver metro area. The issue gained local attention when Northglenn police warned residents to lock up their service lines following multiple thefts this year.
Spartan Plumbing, which provides emergency plumbing, leak detection, and water line repair, was featured in a Denver7 news segment discussing the impact of these thefts. Master Plumber Wayne Lehmann explained that criminals target exposed backflow valves because the brass and copper components can be quickly cut with electric saws and sold for scrap. When a valve is stolen, it leaves an open, pressurized water line that can create a geyser, flooding yards and wasting thousands of gallons of water before the main supply is shut off.
“A stolen backflow valve is not just a missing piece of hardware,” said Lehmann. “It creates an immediate plumbing emergency that can flood a property, disrupt water service, and leave the homeowner responsible for a sudden, expensive repair.”
Homeowners searching for a plumber in Northglenn, CO are increasingly looking for ways to secure their systems before a theft occurs. Spartan Plumbing advises following police recommendations: place backflow preventers in well-lit, visible areas and use protective enclosures or locks designed to deter tampering. The company also urges homeowners to know the location of their main water shut-off valve to stop water flow immediately if a theft occurs.
The theft trend is not limited to Northglenn; law enforcement agencies across the Denver metro area have issued similar warnings. For residents already targeted, Spartan Plumbing says repair requires more than attaching a new valve. The emergency team must assess pipe damage, ensure compliance with local codes, and test the system to confirm drinking water remains protected from contamination.
“When a thief cuts a line, they do not care about the damage they leave behind,” said co-owner Sammy Carr. “Our priority is getting the water shut off, stabilizing the property, and installing a replacement system that is secure and fully compliant with local safety standards.”
Spartan Plumbing operates as a Veteran Owned and Family Owned business serving Northglenn, Arvada, Denver, and the broader Front Range. The company encourages residents to inspect outdoor plumbing regularly, consider installing protective cages over exposed valves, and contact a licensed plumber immediately if they discover a leak, drop in water pressure, or missing backflow device.
