Leaks in household and underground water pipes on your property can be costly and wasteful. Check for possible leaks on your property at least once a month, or whenever you suspect a leak exists.

How to Detect Leaks on Your Property

1. Turn off all your water faucets, pipes, and other water-using fixtures to make sure no water is running.
   
2. Locate your water meter, which should be in or near the sidewalk area fronting your building or home.
   
3. Open the meter cover and check to see if the dial is moving. If it is, you have a leak! Replace the cover and rotate it to secure it.

  Print out a helpful "How to Check for Leaks" handout
  Check Toilets, Faucets, Pipes, and Other Fixtures for Possible Leaks
  Watch a leak detection instructional video

When you go away

If you plan to leave your home empty for any length of time - on vacation, for instance - it might be a good idea to shut off your water valve so that if a serious leak develops while you're away, it will not flood the premises or run up a large water bill for you.

The shutoff or property valve is usually located inside your property, a few feet from the water meter. If a fixture or a pipe is damaged, your first move should be to shut off the supply using this valve. It's most important to keep the shutoff valve clear and within easy access, and in good working order at all times.

Also, check your lawn area for wet spots or areas where the grass seems greener than the rest of the lawn. This could indicate a leaking underground pipe.

Fix the Leak

Leaks will gradually grow larger if repairs are not made, so call a plumber as soon as possible to find and fix the broken pipe.