Water leaks while being rare can have a huge impact on consumption if not identified and repaired quickly. Unfortunately in many cases, a leak is hard to detect.



Here are some tips on how to detect a suspected leak:

 

A water leak will normally continue to leak 24/7 so the best way to identify it is to watch your water meter during a period in which there should be no consumption. If the dials of the meter continue to turn, then there is water going through the meter and a leak is likely.

In some situations it is difficult to conduct this test e.g. if your business operates 24/7.  In these cases adding a data-logger to the water meter could help identify that there is a leak.

What is a data logger?

A data logger is a small device that is fitted to your water meter which measures water use throughout the day.

Why do we use data logging?

Data loggers show you how water is used at your property. They can assist in identifying issues such as leaking pipes and broken fixtures. By identifying and resolving these types of issues early can save you financially due to reduced volumetric water charges.

If you are having difficulty accessing your water meter, please contact us. 

If your meter reading increased using the above test, you should try to find where the leak is.

Taps and sinks – check to see if any taps are dripping. Dripping taps often just need a replacement washer.  

Kitchens - check to see if there is water pooling under a 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.

Bathrooms - check to see if the toilet cistern is continually running. If it is you’ll need to contact a licensed plumber to help you fix the problem.

Outside areas – if you can see wet patches or bright green areas of grass in the areas surrounding your property, this could indicate that there is a concealed leak in a pipe underground. Other things you can look for include

  • Water in a drain when there hasn’t been any rain and it would normally be dry.
  • Water dripping form an overflow (eg hot water system).
If you think you have a leak, and a plumber is needed, you will be responsible for the cost. You will also be charged for the water that is on your property while the leak remains unrepaired.

Employ the services of a leak detection company

There are many companies that can provide sophisticated leak detection services.  Depending on the nature of the technique used, leak detection services can prove to be quite expensive so it is wise to rule out all the other option first and then seek expert advice before engaging a leak detection service.   

If the leak is in the property owner’s pipes

Property owners own and are responsible for the installation, repair, maintenance and replacement of all the private fittings, mains connected water tanks and pipes on their property up to the water meter and sewer connection point.
If a leak or blockage is detected in these pipes, it is the property owner’s responsibility to fix it. We recommend the property owner contacts a licensed plumber to rectify the problem as soon as possible.

If the leak is in one of our pipes

We are responsible for the water meter and the pipes leading away from the property. If a problem is detected in these pipes, it is our responsibility to fix it. Call us immediately on 13 23 64 (24/7).

Have we recently repaired or replaced your water meter? 

In rare cases, maintenance activities can occasionally affect nearby water pipes and fittings. We will investigate all reports of leaks on or near a water meter that has recently been repaired or replaced. Find out more here.