Water leaks waste money and water - don't let this happen to you
Many leaks occur when water pipes crack under the ground, in walls or underneath concrete and driveways, which very often go unnoticed until you suddenly get a large water bill and significant water damage to your property.
These hidden (or concealed) leaks can waste thousands of litres of water a day. Here are some real examples of what can occur:
- A Body Corporate with 98 sub-metered units had a concealed leak underground outside one of the units. Plumbing repairs cost $2800 and customer bill increased from a few hundred dollars average per quarter to $20,000.
- Residential unit owner had a concealed leak underneath a concrete driveway which was not visible above ground. Plumbing repairs cost $1300 and customer bill increased from $250 average to $8800.
Check for a hidden (concealed) leak
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Turn off all taps, the washing machine, dishwasher and irrigation at your property.
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Read your water meter and write down or take a photo of the numbers (including the red numbers, which indicate litres). Make sure you leave the water meter tap on.
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Wait at least one hour before reading your water meter again - remember not to use any water, even to flush the toilet during this time.
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If the reading has changed (last numbers or dial on the water meter), you may have a water leak. Please contact a licensed plumber to investigate.
Please note: the numbers on a water meter will only move if water is being drawn through it, either by something on your property (hose, washing machine, plumbed in fridges, dishwashers, etc.) or if there is a leak.
Watch the video:
What to do when you find a leak
Leaks at the meter
You could have a leak at the meter or around the meter if you notice water filling the meter box or soggy ground surrounding the meter. If your meter box is full of water please call us on 1300 086 489.
If you have soggy ground around your meter and your meter is not ticking over the leak is likely on our infrastructure. Please call us on 1300 086 489.
If you have soggy ground around your meter and your meter is ticking over then water is being drawn through the meter and the leak is on your side of the meter. Please call a local licensed plumber to investigate.
When a concealed leak is repaired
If you have had a hidden (concealed) leak repaired on your property, you may be eligible for a Concealed Leak Allowance if you meet the eligibility criteria under our Concealed Leaks Policy (PDF 173KB).
This helps cover some of the unexpected costs associated with a hidden leak. The majority of leak allowances processed by Unitywater are between $400 and $600.
Your application will be assessed in accordance with Unitywater's Concealed Leaks Policy, as an allowance may not be applicable to all customers.
Unitywater does not offer allowances for any other types of leaks or for the plumbing repair costs associated with any type of leak.