<human>: I have searched google for nearly an hour, and have not gotten a straight answer.  

Anyone ever have this happen?  What were the results?

I had a leak today in my basement, there is a valve BEFORE the meter (technically the city's property, right?) that was installed poorly or just  a shitty valve.  (Short note, we moved into this house ~3 years ago and the city forced us onto city water/sewage OFF of the well/septic system the house was on already before we could purchase) the installation is only 3 years old.  The leak was in my stepson's room, who is in the Army Natl Guard, and has been away at AIT for the last 6 months.  No traffic in is room, which flooded, somewhat.  We just remodeled our basement in December '11 and I am wondering if the city will be liable or not for damages in the basement, IE drywall, carpeting, clean up of water to prevent mold.  The lady I spoke with today said the City insurance company will get a hold of me via snail mail and I should hear from them in TWO WEEKS and gave me no answer to my questions such as "Will I be reimbursed for renting carpet-drying fans?"

Can you give me a shortened version of the text?
<bot>: Water damages, caused by a leaky valve BEFORE the meter:  Who is liable for damages, the City, or myself?