How to check for leaks

Check for leaks at your property

A leaking pipe, tap, toilet or appliance can waste thousands of litres of water and may increase your water charges. The sooner a leak is found and repaired, the less water is wasted.

Signs you may have a leak

You could have a leak if you notice:

  • Water running when no taps or appliances are being used.
  • Damp patches on lawns, gardens, driveways or around your property.
  • Unusually lush or green areas of grass.
  • A constantly running toilet cistern.
  • Reduced water pressure.
  • An increase in your water use or water charges without a clear reason.

How to check for a leak

Step 1: Turn off all water at your property  

Make sure no water is being used inside or outside your property.

This includes:

  • Taps
  • Irrigation systems
  • Showers
  • Toilets
  • Washing machines
  • Dishwashers

Wait a few minutes to ensure all water use has stopped.

Step 2: Locate your water meter 

Your water meter is usually located near the front outside boundary of your property, inside a toby box, a small box set into the ground with a blue lid.

Carefully lift the lid and identify the meter display.

Step 3: Check the flow indicator 

  1. Look at the meter and observe the flow indicator (often a small dial, triangle, or star-shaped wheel).
  2. If the indicator is moving while no water is being used, this may indicate a leak on your property, as water is still flowing through the system.

    Step 4: Check your meter reading  

    1. Look at the meter and note the meter reading.
    2. Do not use any water for at least two hours (overnight is even better, if practical).
    3. Check the meter again.
    4. If the reading has changed, it is likely that water is being lost somewhere on your property.

        Common places leaks occur

        Toilets 

        A leaking toilet is one of the most common causes of water loss.

        To check:

        • Put a few drops of food colouring into the cistern.
        • Wait 10–15 minutes without flushing.
        • If colour appears in the toilet bowl, the cistern is leaking.

        Taps 

        Check indoor and outdoor taps for:

        • Drips
        • Constant trickling
        • Wet areas around fittings.

        Even a slow drip can waste a significant amount of water over time.

        Irrigation systems 

        Inspect:

        • Sprinkler heads
        • Irrigation lines
        • Valves and connections.

        Look for pooling water, soggy ground or unusually green patches of grass.

        Underground pipes 

        Underground leaks can be harder to spot.

        Signs include:

        • Damp or muddy ground
        • Sinking areas of lawn
        • Unexplained water pooling
        • Water meter movement when no water is being used.

        What to do if you find a leak

        Leaks on private property are the responsibility of the property owner.

        If you believe you have a leak:

        1. Arrange for a licensed plumber to investigate and repair the issue.
        2. Keep records of repair work and invoices.
        3. Continue to monitor your water meter after repairs to confirm the leak has been fixed. Water that passes through and is recorded by the water meter remains payable
        4. Once the leak has been repaired, you may be eligible to apply for a reassessment of your water usage charges associated with the leak. Find out more in our Waivers and Remissions Policy.

              When to contact Selwyn Water

              Contact us if:

              • You suspect a leak on the public water network.
              • Water is flowing from a road, berm or footpath.
              • You notice a damaged water meter.
              • You need assistance locating your water meter.

              If you're unsure whether you have a leak, our team can provide guidance on checking your water meter and understanding your water use.