Quick answer
A sudden increase in water use can be caused by a leak, but billing periods, estimated readings, household changes and meter issues can also affect a bill. Compare actual readings and check for continuous use before assuming a hidden pipe has failed.
Check the bill and recent use
Compare the current bill with earlier bills and note whether the reading is actual or estimated. Check the dates covered, any tariff changes and whether more people have been at home or water-using appliances have changed. Contact your water company if a reading seems wrong or you need help identifying the meter.
Look for steady water use
- 1Turn off taps and water-using appliances and ensure toilets have stopped refilling.
- 2Record the meter, wait without using water and compare the reading.
- 3Repeat the check and note any change. A moving meter points to water use but may include shared supplies or overlooked appliances.
- 4Inspect accessible areas for damp, listen for running water and check toilets for silent refilling.
Arrange the right investigation
A leak may be concealed under floors or within walls, so avoid cutting into surfaces. Keep bills, meter readings and photographs together. TraceFix engineers in Birmingham and London can assess suspected plumbing leaks with appropriate tracing methods. If the likely fault is on the supply pipe, speak to your water company; supply-pipe responsibility depends on location and circumstances.
When to call a plumber
- Meter readings rise when no water is being used.
- You find unexplained damp or hear water running.
- A high bill continues after checking appliances and readings.
- You suspect an underground supply-pipe leak.
Common questions
Whole-House Plumbing Check
Just bought a home? Get all the plumbing checked, with a report included, for £495
We check the stopcock, pipework, joints, taps, toilets, showers, hot water and signs of hidden leaks. If we find anything risky, your report explains it and tells you what to do next.