Checking for leaks is something everyone should do regularly.

Tell-tale signs to help you spot leaks include:

• Damp patches in or outside the property
• Lush vegetation in dry periods may be indications of leaking pipes
• Leaking toilets
• Leaking overflow systems

Metered customers

If your meter reading or bill is unusually high it may indicate you have a leak. You can use your meter to check if you have a leak on the pipework after the meter:

• Turn off all taps
• Find your water meter and take a reading (including the red digits)
• Do not use any water for a length of time (eg overnight or while you are out for the day).
• Read the meter again

If the second reading is higher than the first there may be a leak.

If you have a leak on your property you may wish to contact an approved plumber.

If you need to turn off your water supply quickly in an emergency:

1. Turn off the water supply

• Turn off your inside stop tap  – it should where your water pipe comes into your home such as in the cupboard under the kitchen sink or in a downstairs toilet.
• Turn on all your cold taps to drain the system.
• Keep an eye on your ceilings. If water has been leaking for a while, there may be damaged plaster waiting to fall. If the water starts to bulge carefully make a hole in the ceiling to let water out.

2. Turn off water heating systems

• Switch off your central heating, immersion heater and any other water heating systems. If the central heating uses solid fuel, let this die out.
• Once your water heating has shut down, turn on the hot taps to help drain the system.

3. Turn off the electrics

• If water leaks near anything electrical – lights, sockets or appliances – don’t touch them.
• Switch off the electricity supply straight away.
• Electrical wiring damaged by water can be very dangerous and you will probably need to call in a professional to repair any damage.

4. Call a professional

Click here to find an approved plumber

If you have a leak in your home, garden or driveway, this is your responsibility to fix. If you're a household customer, we may be able to help you with the repair. Please call us on 0800 243 352 for further advice.