We all have an interest in using water efficiently and reducing leakage. A water leak on your property is a waste of a precious resource.

If left running, a leak can cause damage to your property, so it is to your benefit to get a leak fixed as quickly as possible.

What to do if you suspect a leak from the supply pipe.

If you do not have a water meter fitted, a number of signs may indicate an undetected water leak on the supply pipe that is your responsibility. These include:

• hearing the sound of running water
• seeing leaking water or the presence of wet areas
• the presence of lush vegetation near pipework, especially during dry periods
• reduced water pressure.

If you suspect a leak on your supply pipe, you will probably need to hire a contractor to detect the location of the leak and to carry out the repair. Some older supply pipes are in poor condition and it may be more economical to replace the supply pipe to prevent future costly leaks. If you are unable to carry out the checks suggested, or where the source of the leakage cannot be identified, you should contact our customer services for immediate advice on Waterline 03457 440088, or on Leakline 08000 282011.

Water escaping from a leak is a loss of a costly and valuable resource, so if a leak is reported or detected on your pipework we will ask you to repair it. If it is not repaired we can carry out the repair ourselves and recover our costs from the person responsible for the pipe. In extreme cases where escaping water is in danger of causing damage or danger to persons or property, we can turn off the supply until a repair is carried out.

In some circumstances a grant may be available from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) for your share of the cost; please contact NIHE before you start work.