The study assessed socio-economic effects of the disconnection of communal water standpipes among poor segments of communities in the rural village of Lehututu in Kgalagadi District and the suburban area of Bontleng in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana. A social survey, key informant interviews, and documentary analysis were used to collect data. The study was carried out from August 2004 to June 2005. It was found that disconnection of public standpipes adversely affected poor members of the communities. Public authorities were adamant that access to free water encouraged wasteful and illegal use, and vandalism, contrary to government policy.