Leaks aren’t always obvious and can often lead to higher water bills. Most leaks are easy to fix, while others may require a plumber.
Denver Water is responsible for repairing leaks on its water meters and water mains. If there is a leak on the customer’s service line then it is the responsibility of the customer to fix the leak. This includes all pipe between the water main and the building, the irrigation system or indoor plumbing. Toilets are the most common leak culprit, so check your toilets to ensure you’re not wasting water.
To report a leak to a water meter or water main, or to request an inspection, contact Denver Water at 303-628-6000.
How to find leaks:
Most leaks can be heard or seen, but some are difficult to detect. Your water meter may be your most useful tool in identifying water leaks on your property because the meter only operates when water is flowing into your property. Follow these easy steps to check for unseen leaks:
- Locate the water meter
- Locate the water supply shut-off valve for your building. It can be outdoors or indoors and is commonly located where the main water pipe enters the building foundation. In a home, this is often near an outside faucet. (Note: If you do not have a main shut-off valve, have one installed by a licensed and bonded plumber.)
- Turn off all faucets, outlets and water-using appliances.
- Note the gallon calculating sweep hand on the meter. It operates much like a second hand on a watch. After 30 minutes or more, take another look at the dial. If the hand or the number wheels have moved, you have a leak either inside or underground. Now, close the main shut-off valve. If the indicator stops, your leak is inside the building. Check toilets and faucets. If the indicator continues to move when the shut-off valve is closed, you have an underground leak between the water meter and the shut-off valve, which needs to be repaired. Most meters have a small, red triangle or gear-shaped indicator that will show very small water flows. If that indicator is moving after you shut off the valve, you have a leak.
If Denver Water discovers a leak on your service line, we will notify you about the leak and require that it be repaired before a specified deadline. Please help save water and keep your water bill down by promptly repairing all leaks.