Finding leaks on your property

Some leaks are quite easy to see or hear - like a dripping tap, a leaking toilet or new wet patch on your lawn.  Other leaks are not as easy to spot, and you may not notice it until your next water bill.

Leaks can happen for a variety of reasons, and knowing the signs can help you take action quickly. Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Outside: Damp soil, unusually green patches of grass, or wet paths (brickwork or concrete) may indicate a leak outside your home.
• Inside: Damp, warped, or discoloured walls, floors, or carpets can suggest a concealed leak indoors.
• Appliances: Drips from your hot water system, evaporative air-conditioner, or water pooling under your dishwasher or in cupboards might point to a problem.
• Toilet cistern: A running toilet can waste up to 260 litres of water a day. To check for leaks, add a few drops of food colouring to the cistern. If the colour shows up in the bowl without flushing, there's a leak.

How to find water leaks and read your meter

To check if you have a leak, you can use your water meter to conduct a simple test:

1. Take an initial reading from your water meter.
2. Avoid using any water inside and outside of your house for about an hour or two.
3. Take another reading.

If the reading has changed, there’s likely a leak.

If the leak is on your property or in your plumbing, we recommend you contact a licensed plumber to locate and repair the leak. You can find licensed plumbers through the Master Plumbers Association at mpasa.com.au/find-a-plumber or by calling 8292 4000.

If you have seen an increase in your water bill as a result of your leak, you may be eligible for a one-time allowance that covers up to 50% of the water lost (up to 600 kilolitres). Complete our leakage allowance form to apply.

SA Water will look after any leaks between the water main and your meter.

You can report problems with your water meter or leaks on our side by using our 24/7 Faults and Outages Map online. We’ll send someone to assess and repair the issue. You can also call us on 1300 SA WATER (1300 729 283).

It's important for everyone's safety that you do not try and fix or interfere with the meter on your property yourself. The water meter remains the property of SA Water, and only authorised personnel are permitted to inspect, maintain, repair, or replace it as necessary.