You don’t have to wait until you get a large water bill to know you have a leak. You can check your water meter to see if the dial is turning when no water is being used – this usually indicates a leak.
Not sure which is your meter?
Check this guide: Which meter serves my property?
An overnight test will help confirm if you have a leak
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Read your water meter last thing at night, then first thing in the morning. Find and read your water meter
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Make sure you don’t use any water during the night. If the meter numbers are higher, this shows that water is being used and it is likely you have a leak.
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Read all the numbers on the dial (black and red squares).
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The example below shows that about 25 litres of water were used during the night. This indicates a leak.
How to check for obvious leaks
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Look for dripping taps.
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Look behind your dishwasher and washing machine for any signs of water.
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Check your toilet cisterns. Put a few drops of food colouring in the cistern. If colour ends up in the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
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See if the hot water cylinder expansion relief valve is letting water drip into the gully trap.
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In dry weather, look for damp patches in the garden, lawn or driveway.
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Listen for running water inside your home when no taps, hoses or showers are turned on.
What if I can’t find any leaks?
If your meter dial is moving and no water has been used, you may need to call a registered plumber to check further.