How to Read Your Water Meter

Sometimes we’re unable to access your water meter due to a locked gate or dog. If our meter reader visited your property and was not able to read your meter, or you received an estimated meter read on your latest bill, you can submit your meter reading by emailing us.

All meters record the same information. The black numbers on the white background are kilolitres (some meters may display up to six digits) and the white numbers on the red background are litres.

When you contact us with the meter reading, you may be asked to provide your meter number.

Check for leaks

Firstly, let’s verify if you have a water leak.

1. Find your water meter
   Your water meter is outside and usually near the front gate or fence of your property. If you’re not sure where your meter is, contact us on 1800 671 841. Once you’ve found your meter, make a note of the numbers.
   If possible, also take a photo.
2. Stop using any water
   Turn off all taps and appliances, except for the stop tap next to the water meter and toilets within the house.
3. Wait for two hours
   Make sure non one uses water during this time.
4. Check the water meter again
   If the numbers on your water meter have changed or the wheel has moved, you may have a water leak. Repeat the test again, just to make sure.

Leaks aren’t always easy to locate. A list of common areas for inspection are below:

Toilets

A leaky toilet can add up. A trickle can add more than $425 a year to your bill, while a big leak could add $3,000 or more. A good way to check if your toilet is leaking is the paper test:

1. Place a piece of paper at the back of the toilet bowl
2. Make sure the back of the toilet pan is dry (best to wait 30 minutes after the last flush)
3. Leave it there for a few minutes - make sure no one uses the toilet during this time
4. If the paper is wet or torn, you may have a leak

Taps

Dripping taps might not seem like a big deal, but they can waste up to 20,000 litres of water per year or 55 litres a day—that’s roughly $20 extra each bill.

If you notice a tap dripping, the most likely cause is a worn washer, which you may be able to replace yourself.

Irrigation systems

Unexplained wet patches in your garden can indicate a fault or leak with your irrigation system.

Evaporative coolers

These are generally located on rooftops. It’s normal for a small amount of water to drip from the pipe when in use. However, if you see water running down the roof even when the system is turned off, or a wet patch appears on an internal ceiling or wall, you may have a leak.

Hot water units

The most common problem with hot water systems is that the pressure temperature relief valve can malfunction and release water.

As hot water services are generally located on the side of a house (where people normally don’t walk) these leaks can go undetected. To check for a leak, find your hot water unit and see if there is water running out of the pipe.

If you have identified a water leak and are unable to repair or replace yourself, engage a qualified plumber to complete the repair. For more information, contact us on 1800 671 841 or via email.

Outside your property

We are responsible for the meter and the pipes from the street to the meter. If the leak is on our side, let us know as soon as you can and we’ll get it sorted.

Inside the property

If you’re the owner of the property and have identified a water leak and are unable to repair/replace yourself, engage a qualified plumber to complete the repair.

If you are a tenant of the property, contact your agent or rental provider as soon as possible.