DEP Warns Of False Inspectors

Several Southeast Queens residents have recently been targeted by individuals posing as water inspectors, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.
"Complainants from Cambria Heights, Rosedale, Hollis, Jamaica, St. Albans and Queens Village have reported that the individuals identified themselves as being from DEP or the water department," said DEP Commissioner Christopher Ward. "These people are not employees of the DEP or its contractors. Accordingly, we have outlined precautions that citizens should take to protect themselves from impostors who claim they need to inspect water quality, water meters or plumbing equipment."
Employees of the DEP who are authorized to enter homes must carry and show photo identification and badges issued by the agency. Con Edison workers, who also read water meters for the agency, carry photo identification and wear uniforms. Homeowners should ask for photo identification before allowing any inspector into their homes.
Most water meters are read outside the home, but DEP inspectors may seek access to a house without appointment for some meter readings and to inspect installations and repairs done by agency contractors.
DEP contractors do not always make appointments to install meters, but they always carry agency-issued photo identification and drive trucks bearing company identification.
Like water quality inspectors, DEP air and noise inspectors do not wear uniforms but must carry photo identification and inspector badges. When performing tests in a home at the owners request, they normally make appointments.
Agency employees responding to emergency calls such as hazardous spills, and water and sewer system leaks carry photo identification that they must present to be allowed into a building.
No agency employee will ever ask for money to perform any service or for payment of past bills.
To report a person who you think may be posing as an employee, call your local police precinct and the DEP Help Center at (718) DEP-HELP (718-337-4357).