Water leaks are a big nuisance that can cost a lot of money if not found early. Many leaks occur when water pipes crack under the ground, in walls and underneath concrete and driveways, which makes them difficult to find.
These hidden (or concealed) leaks can waste thousands of litres of water a day and very often go unnoticed, until you suddenly get a much larger bill and significant water damage to your property.
Turn off all taps, the washing machine, dishwasher and irrigation at your property.
Read your water meter and write down or take a photo of the numbers (including the red numbers, which indicate litres). Make sure you leave the water meter tap on.
Wait at least one hour before reading your water meter again - remember not to use any water, even to flush the toilet during this time.
If the reading has changed (last numbers or dial on the water meter), you may have a water leak. Please contact a licensed plumber to investigate.
Please note: The numbers on a water meter will only move if water is being drawn through it, either by something on your property (hose, washing machine, plumbed in fridges, dishwashers, etc.) or if there is a leak.
Toilet cistern leaks are common and can be easily checked by following these steps:
Pour a few drops of food colouring into the toilet cistern (just enough to colour the water slightly).
Don't flush - wait. If colour appears in the toilet bowl, you have a leak.
Flush as soon as the test has been completed to clear the food colouring. It does not stain ceramic toilet bowls.
Don't want to use food colouring? Try placing a sheet of dry toilet paper at the back of the toilet bowl, above the water line. It should stay dry unless there is water trickling down the back of the bowl, indicating a leaking toilet.
Please contact a licensed plumber to investigate as soon as possible.
All leaks, including concealed leaks, on private property are the property owner’s responsibility to investigate and repair.
All water pipes and fittings from the water meter on to private property are the property owner's responsibility to maintain.
To stop water being wasted on your property, if you have a leak you can temporarily turn the stop tap off at your water meter.
You could have a leak at the meter or around the meter if you notice water filling the meter box or soggy ground surrounding the meter.
If you notice a leak on public property, such as water leaking on the road or footpath, or a burst water main, please call us on 02 6643 0200 during office hours or 02 6626 6858 after hours possible to report it (24/7).
If you have had a hidden (concealed) leak repaired on your property, you may be eligible for a Concealed Leak Allowance.
Your application will be assessed in accordance with our Concealed Leaks Policy, as an allowance may not be applicable to all customers.