Check for leaks

A challenge for fixing leaks is to find them in the first place. Repairing leaks help to prevent issues like reduced water pressure or water supply disruptions. See how you can check for a leak on your property.

Check for an internal plumbing issue

If these checks show that you might have an internal plumbing issue, you should contact your local plumber as soon as possible.

Call us on 1800 278 278 if you have mobility concerns that mean you are unable to carry out these checks.

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1. Check the toilet

Is there a constant sound of water running from any of your toilet cisterns? Check for a stream of water running inside the toilet bowl or place a piece of toilet paper on the inside back of the toilet bowl and see if it absorbs water.

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2. Water storage tank

The tank is usually in the attic. Can you hear it refilling when you’re not using water-consuming appliances or recently flushed a toilet? Also check the external wall of your home for signs of water coming from the overflow pipes that lead from the water storage tank.

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3. Household and garden taps

Check all your household and external garden taps for drips. A dripping tap can waste over 1,500 litres of water per year, which is enough water to fill 20 bathtubs. You can repair it quickly by replacing the washer.

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Water conservation calculator

Discover how good your household is at saving water. Simply answer a few questions about your water usage habits and our calculator will do the work for you.

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Use a water meter to check for leaks

To do this test you'll need to be able to safely access your inside stop valve and water meter. Your water will need to be off for about an hour. 

  1. Switch off all appliances that consume water and turn off your inside stop valve.
  2. Note your meter reading. Don't worry if you can't see the last digit on the red dials.
  3. Wait for 1 hour, then take a second meter reading.
  4. If there's a difference between the two readings, get in contact with us. It might mean you have a leak on your external supply pipe.

Apply for a free leak repair

Concerned that you may have a leak on your external supply pipe? You could be eligible for a free repair with our First Fix Free scheme.