What to do in case of a leak

If the two readings from your leak test show a difference, you might have a leak. This could be a slow leak, for example a dripping tap or shower, or water leaking from your toilet tank into the bowl. Leaks can also be hidden, and even a small leak can do a lot of damage over time.

Locate the leak

The first thing you will need to do is locate the leak. See below for tips on where to look and how to listen for a leak.

If you are not able to find anything, you might need to get a plumber in to help you with detecting the leak. 

Fix the leak

Depending on what is leaking, you might be able to fix the leak yourself, or you might need a plumber.

Small leaks, like a dripping tap or a toilet leak, might be easy to fix, and there is a lot of information available online. For example, YouTube has plenty of videos of people showing how to fix particular leaks.

If you are not able to fix the leak yourself, it might be worth hiring a plumber. Even though your leak might be small, you are still losing a significant amount of water (and money) per year. Calculate how much your leak is costing you.

Who is responsible?

Leaks on or in the property are the owner’s responsibility. Keep the plumber’s invoice if you have a large leak repaired, as you may be able to apply for a leak allowance.

Leaks at the meter or a damaged water meter will be repaired by Watercare. Call 09 442 2222 or email [email protected].

Your free Water Check appointment

Your water usage might be higher than average due to your leak, but we’d like to make sure you are not using more water than necessary in and around your house. We will keep you on our waiting list to receive a Water Check, and we will try to book you in soon.

In the meantime, you can visit our website to find tips and tricks to save water, or complete our DIY Interactive Water Check. This is an online version of our service which you can complete in your home at any time, and you will still receive an email with specific water saving recommendations for your household.