An unexpectedly high bill does not automatically mean there is a burst pipe. Start by separating a change in water use from a possible hidden leak. A short record of your bill, meter and recent household changes gives a leak investigator a much better starting point.
Compare water use before comparing the dollar total
Look at the volume used, the length of the billing period and whether the reading is actual or estimated. Compare daily use where your bill provides it. A longer billing period, a corrected estimate or a price change can make a total look unusual without the same increase in water consumption.
Think about visitors, irrigation changes, pool filling, renovation work or an appliance that has been running more often. If the meter number on the bill does not match the meter you believe serves the property, ask the water provider or building manager to clarify before drawing conclusions.
Make a simple observation at an accessible meter
If you have a safely accessible meter serving only your property, choose a time when nobody is using water. Pause normal water use and remember appliances, irrigation and automatic filling systems. Photograph the reading, allow a period with no intentional use, then compare the reading again.
Movement suggests water is passing through the meter, but does not locate the cause. Record the start and finish times as well as the readings. Do not dismantle the meter, force a valve or enter a locked or unsafe service space. A shared apartment meter cannot isolate your individual usage in the same way.
Look for clues without opening walls
Check accessible areas for a toilet that keeps refilling, dampness under cabinets, unexplained wet patches outside or the sound of running water when fixtures are off. Note recurring dampness rather than assuming every mark is a current plumbing leak.
- Does an appliance refill when it should be idle?
- Has garden irrigation recently changed?
- Does the problem vary by time of day?
- Have pressure or hot-water performance changed?
- Is a previously dry floor, cabinet or wall now damp?
These observations help narrow the investigation. Avoid disconnecting appliances or pipes just to see whether the reading changes.
When to book water leak detection
Arrange an investigation when unexplained use continues, the meter moves with normal water use stopped, or dampness appears without a clear cause. If water is actively escaping or damaging the building, call for urgent assistance rather than waiting for another bill.
Send or have ready the relevant bill readings, your observation times, property type and a description of any damp areas. Ask what the visit includes, whether the investigator can access likely pipe routes and how any proposed invasive inspection will be authorised.
Check the result after a repair
Repeat an agreed usage check after the repair and retain the invoice and findings. A lower reading during one short test is helpful, but normal household use should also be monitored. Where billing questions remain, speak directly with the water provider; a repair report does not itself guarantee a bill adjustment.
Restored Right Group can discuss water leak investigation across its Sydney service areas. Explain whether this is unexplained usage only or a leak causing visible damage so the response can be prioritised appropriately.
Common questions
Does meter movement prove an underground leak?
No. It can also reflect a running fixture, an automatic appliance or another water demand. The cause needs to be investigated.
Can I use this check in a strata apartment?
Only if the meter is confirmed to serve your unit and is safely accessible. Ask the building manager about shared meters and access.
Need help with your property?
Call with your suburb, what happened and whether water is still escaping. Confirm availability and the proposed first-visit scope when booking.
General property guidance; the right response depends on the conditions on site. Keep clear of unsafe areas and call 000 for immediate danger to life.