Guide
High Water Bill? Start With Usage
A bigger bill doesn't always mean a leak. Here is how to tell whether you're actually using more water — and what to do if you are.
Compare usage, not just the total
Your bill shows a dollar amount and, usually, a quantity of water used — often in units of hundred cubic feet (HCF) or gallons. Rates, tiers, service charges and taxes can change the total even when your usage hasn't moved. Put this period's usage next to the same period last year and the previous period.
Check the billing period
A period with more days naturally shows more usage. Divide usage by the number of days to compare fairly. Estimated readings followed by an actual reading can also create a one-time spike.
Account for household changes
- More people at home, guests or a new baby
- Hot weather and irrigation schedules, a new lawn or garden
- Filling or topping up a pool or spa
- A new appliance, or one that has started misbehaving
- A toilet that runs, refills by itself or has a worn flapper
A safe meter observation
The U.S. EPA's WaterSense guidance suggests reading your water meter before and after a period when no water is used. If the reading changes, water may be escaping somewhere.
- Pick a time when nobody will use water — for example, a couple of hours while you're out.
- Turn off irrigation at its controller and make sure appliances such as ice makers, water softeners and dishwashers aren't mid-cycle.
- Note the meter reading or the position of the low-flow indicator if your meter has one. Only look at the meter if you can access it safely; don't force the lid or touch utility equipment.
- Check again at the end of the period without having used water.
What this can and can't tell you. A moving meter suggests unexplained water use. It does not tell you where the leak is, whether it's inside or outside, or how serious it is. Automatic appliances and irrigation you missed can also move the meter. Locating the source needs an investigation.
Renters and shared meters
If you rent, tell your landlord or property manager what you've noticed and when — they are usually the right person to arrange an investigation. In buildings where several units share one meter, a single household can't run a reliable meter test; the owner or manager would need to coordinate it. Report visible water or dampness promptly in writing.
When to call, and what to prepare
Consider calling if usage rose with no explanation, the meter moves with everything off, or you notice dampness, warm floors or water sounds. Have ready:
- The last two or three bills, showing usage figures
- Your meter observation results, if you did one
- Any symptoms and where you've noticed them
- Whether you own or rent, and whether the meter is shared
Wet yard near the street? See underground water leaks. Warm spot on a concrete floor? See slab leak detection. For an overview of the service, visit leak detection in Montebello, CA. EPA's home maintenance tips are also useful background.