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Hidden Water Leaks Can Cause Major Damage and Cost You More Than You Think

Concealed water leaks or hidden water leaks can not only cause significant damage but can also be costly with increased water bills being experienced.

Concealed water leaks can go undetected for a long period of time as they may not always show up at surface level.

A concealed leak may not include a leak within your property like a constantly running toilet or a burst pipe in an internal wall but would consist of an underground mains water supply pipe.

Utility providers read water meters every 3 months and you can track your usage on your bill.

However, you should also check your water meter regularly to keep an eye on how much water you’re using.

If your water use has suddenly increased over the 3-month period, there may be a concealed leak.

The utility provider may send a letter to advise of a potential concealed leak if they notice a large increase in usage.

First you should check your property for visible water leaks from taps, showers, toilets, and irrigation systems, then inspect for concealed leaks.

A simple step by step test that can be performed is detailed below:

  1. Monitor the mains water meter ensuring that no occupants are using water to determine if the meter is ticking over.
  2. A time lapse video can be performed on a mobile phone, or I Pad device for a period of 15 minutes whilst walking around the complex to inspect for any signs of water or moisture or signs of water flowing through any stormwater collection pits.
  3. Turn off all taps and irrigation systems to the complex.
  4. Inspect the main council water meter and record the current reading ensuring the mains water meter is left on.
  5. Ensure that no water is used for an hour which includes flushing of any toilets.
  6. Inspect the mains water meter after a 1-hour period and take a further reading to determine if there has been any usage.

Should an increased water consumption invoice be received, there may be a claim for financial assistance through the local authority.

To check for eligibility, enquiries would need to be made with the local council water provider that the complex falls under.