How to check for leaks on your property

1. Turn off all internal and external taps.
2. Write down the numbers displayed on your water meter.
3. Do not turn the tap/valve at the meter.
4. Do not use any water for at least one hour (don’t even flush the toilet).
5. Read the numbers on your meter again, paying attention to the red numbers and dials.

• If you observe the dials of the meter turning, or there has been an increase in the numbers you recorded, you may have a leak. Find out what to do if you have a leak.
• If you are unable to locate the source of a leak, you can engage a licensed plumber or leak detection service to assist you.

Visible leaks. Things to check for.

• Taps and sinks – check to see if any taps are dripping. Dripping taps will often just need a replacement washer.
• Kitchen - check to see if there is water pooling under the dishwasher or fridge (if it is connected to the plumbing). You should also look for warped or discoloured cupboards, bench tops or walls. This is a sign that water is leaking from somewhere close by.
• Bathroom - check to see if the toilet cistern is continually running.
• Laundry - check for water pooling under the washing machine or laundry tub. If you see pooling water in these areas, check the hoses connecting the washing machine to see if they are cracked, frayed, bulging or wet.
• Yard – if you can see wet patches or bright green areas of grass in your yard, this could indicate that there is a concealed leak in a pipe underground.
• Your water meter – check to see if there is water leaking from your water meter.

Less obvious leaks. Things to check for

• Yard - Wet or damp patches in the yard during a dry spell
• Unexpected increase in usage
• A noticeable reduction in water pressure
• Outside - Some cracking in paved areas
• Internal surfaces - Warped or discoloured walls or floorboards
• Damp carpets
• Hot water system - Drips on the side of a hot water system
• Irrigation systems – check your gardens for hidden irrigation pipes that may be leaking
• Solar hot water / pool heating systems – check for leaks from the unit and associated pipework
• Water tanks – if your tank can draw water from the main supply, check that the auto top-up valve is functioning correctly
• Pools – if your pool has auto top-up, check it’s not topping up continuously. Also, check you pool for leaks.