When Will Irrigation Water Be Turned On?
Irrigation water is typically available within the first couple of weeks of April, depending on weather and your community’s irrigation provider.
Irrigation water is not controlled by the builder. It is managed by a third party, which may include:
- Your HOA (Homeowners Association)
- The community developer (Brighton Corporation)
- A local irrigation district or canal company
How Will You Know When Your Irrigation Is On?
You may notice:
- Water flowing through irrigation lines
- Community signage or posted notices
- Communication from your HOA or irrigation provider
Who Should You Contact with Questions?
If you have questions about irrigation water timing or availability, your best points of contact are:
- Your HOA (Homeowners Association)
- Local Irrigation District (if applicable to your area)
These groups have direct control over the irrigation system and can provide the most accurate updates.
Who Is Responsible for Starting the System?
If Your Irrigation System Was Fully Completed Before Winter
- The system is considered complete
- Homeowners are responsible for turning the system back on and performing seasonal start-up
If Your Irrigation System Was NOT Finalized Before Winter
- Our landscaper will return in the spring
- They will complete system setup, testing, and adjustments
We coordinate these visits based on irrigation water availability and weather conditions.
How to Tell If Your System Was Finalized
If you’re unsure which category your home falls into, here are a few indicators:
-
Signs Your System WAS Finalized
- Your yard had full sprinkler coverage installed and functioning before winter
- The system was actively running and programmed during the fall
- All zones (front yard, backyard, and any drip lines) appeared to be installed and operational
- You did not notice any unfinished work (exposed lines, missing heads, etc.)
-
Signs Your System Was NOT Finalized
- Landscaping was installed late in the season (fall/winter)
- Irrigation was not fully turned on or tested before winterization
- You notice:
- Missing or capped sprinkler heads
- Areas without irrigation coverage
- Exposed drip lines or incomplete zones
- You were informed that final setup would occur in the spring
When in Doubt
If you’re unsure whether your system was finalized:
- Try turning on the system once irrigation water is available
- If it runs and covers all areas as expected → it is likely complete
- If something appears incomplete or non-functional → please reach out to our team
We’re happy to help confirm and guide you on next steps.
Important Reminder
- Landscaper return visits are only scheduled for systems that were not finalized prior to winter
- For completed systems, seasonal start-up and adjustments are part of normal homeowner maintenance
How to Start Your Irrigation System
1. Locate and Turn On the Main Valve
- Your irrigation shut-off is typically located in a ground box near the front, side, or back of the home
- You may need an irrigation valve key depending on how the system was winterized
- Turn the valve on slowly to allow water to re-enter the system gradually
2. Run Each Zone Individually
- Turn on one zone at a time
- Check for:
- Leaks or pooling water
- Heads that aren’t popping up
- Irregular spray patterns
3. Clean and Flush the System
- Remove debris from sprinkler heads
- Run each zone briefly to flush out dirt or sediment
- Clean any accessible filters (especially in drip systems)
4. Adjust Sprinkler Heads
- Reposition heads to ensure proper coverage
- Avoid spraying:
- Your home
- Fences
- Sidewalks or driveways
- Ensure even water distribution across lawn and planting areas
Spring Landscaping Expectations
Early Season Conditions
- Grass and plants may take time to green up
- Some unevenness or settling from winter is normal
- Systems may need minor adjustments as temperatures increase
Drainage Awareness
- Monitor areas where water collects
- Ensure drains remain clear of debris
- Report any persistent drainage concerns
Landscaping Warranty & Care Expectations
Landscaping is considered a living system and is influenced by many factors outside of builder control, including:
- Watering schedules
- Weather conditions
- Soil conditions
- Fertilization and maintenance
Important Notes:
- Landscaping is not covered under the builder’s warranty
- Ongoing care and maintenance are the homeowner’s responsibility
That said:
If something appears to be struggling or failing early on, please notify us within 30 days of irrigation water being turned on so our team can review and help determine next steps.
Best Practices for a Healthy Landscape
- Start with shorter watering cycles and adjust as temperatures rise
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to pooling or root issues
- Monitor sprinkler performance regularly
- Keep drains and irrigation components clear of debris
FAQs:
→ Why isn’t my sprinkler system working right away?
Irrigation water may not yet be fully available or pressurized. Additionally, debris from winter can clog heads or filters, and systems often need to be manually turned back on.
→ Do I need an irrigation key?
Possibly. Depending on how your system was winterized, an irrigation key may be required to turn the main valve back on.
→ Will the landscaper come back automatically?
Only if your irrigation system was not finalized prior to winter. If your system was complete, seasonal start-up is the homeowner’s responsibility.
→ Why are some sprinkler heads not working properly?
This is often caused by debris buildup, misalignment, or minor shifting from winter conditions. Cleaning and adjusting heads typically resolves the issue.
→ Why does my yard look uneven or patchy?
Some unevenness and slow growth are normal after winter. With consistent watering and warmer temperatures, conditions should improve.
→ What should I do if I notice standing water or poor drainage?
First, check that drains are clear of grass or debris. If the issue continues, please reach out with photos so we can review.
→ Is landscaping covered under warranty?
No. Landscaping is not covered under the builder’s warranty due to the many variables involved in maintenance and environmental conditions.
→ When should I report landscaping concerns?
If you notice issues early in the season, please notify us within 30 days of irrigation water being turned on so we can evaluate.
→ Do I need to adjust my watering schedule throughout the season?
Yes. Watering needs change as temperatures rise. Start with shorter cycles and adjust as needed to avoid over- or under-watering.
If you have questions or need help troubleshooting your system, our team is always happy to help guide you in the right direction.