If you suspect a water leak in your home, do this simple meter test. The test should be done at least once a year. This is how you do the test.

1. Turn off all taps.

2. Check the exact reading on the water meter. Take a picture of the meter with your phone to get an accurate reading. The meter is located next to the main barrier.

3. Wait a few hours without using water.

4. Check the water meter reading again. Compare the new reading with the old one. If the reading has changed, there’s probably a leak somewhere. Contact your local plumber.

For a reliable measurement, turn off the hot water heater before the test. Heating the water expands the water mass and increases the pressure, which may cause the reservoir to discharge water through pressure valves during the test. This can affect the meter reading.

Old water pipes should be checked when they are 25 years old. On average, water damage occurs in 28-year-old water pipes.

You can order a free water and heating network condition survey from us. During the survey visit, you will receive an expert assessment of the condition of your home’s plumbing.