NORFOLK - Dozens of homeowners have had to replace water pipes in their homes the past few years, and the town is looking into whether town water is to blame.

Selectmen are scheduled to tackle the problem Monday night when they meet with representatives of the water division of the department of public works. The regular selectmen's meeting begins at 7:30 p.m., with the water issue on the agenda for 7:50 p.m.

One concern is "whether the town has created a negligent environment for people that caused pipe failures," Selectman James Lehan said.

An estimated 55 homes have had to replace water pipes the past three years, with a growing frequency.

"We don't know how widespread the problem is," Lehan said. "There are pockets where it is more concentrated than other areas." Selectmen are considering sending out a questionaire to survey homes.

Board members are also considering how to financially help homeowners who suddenly are hit with a bill of several thousand dollars "they may not be able to afford," the selectman said.

"I have had quite a few calls," Lehan said of the water problems.

The water pipes have developed pin holes rather than corrosion.

One theory is water employees are more aggressively looking for leaks with new equipment.

"People may have had leaks a long time, and didn't know it," Lehan said.