How to apply for a leak allowance

If you’ve had a hidden leak fixed or think you might have a leak you may be eligible to apply for a leak allowance. Here is everything you need to know before you apply. 

What do I get as part of a leak allowance?

You may be able to receive an allowance of up to 50% of the estimated water lost. The allowance, however, doesn’t cover the cost for any repair work or services. We consider each application on a case-by-case basis.

What is a hidden leak?

A hidden leak is one that is not visible and often occurs from a cracked or broken pipe underground, in walls, underneath paving or driveways.

What we don’t consider a hidden leak

Leaks that are on internal or external taps, fittings or fixtures, such as shower heads, toilet cisterns, dishwashers, washing machines, or other water appliances and valves are not hidden leaks.

Leaks in swimming pools, spas ponds, water features and related fittings are also not hidden leaks.

Leak allowance eligibility criteria

You may be eligible for a leak allowance if:

• The leak is hidden and not readily detectable.
• The water use charge on your recent bill was over $250 or the amount of water use was over 150kL.
• The leak was repaired by:
  • A licensed plumber for repairs on internal plumbing 
  • A Waterwise Garden Irrigator (WGI) for repairs irrigation systems. A WGI isn't authorised to repair leaks on your internal plumbing service or install manual isolation or backflow prevention devices. 
• A leak allowance will only be considered after you have your plumbing or irrigation repairs completed to meet the industry standards. The plumbing or irrigation repairs must be compliant with government regulations.
• The leak was repaired within 60 days of detection or receiving a high water use or leak notification with your bill.
• You are occupying and/or maintaining the property.
• You submit your leak allowance form within 6 months of the repair date.

You won't be eligible for a leak allowance if:

• The leak is visible and readily detectable in:
  
  • Internal or external taps, fittings or fixtures, such as shower heads, toilet cisterns, dish washers, washing machines or other water appliances and valves; or
  • In a swimming pool, spa, pond, water feature and related fittings.
• The leak hasn't been repaired (or verified) by a licensed plumber.
• The garden irrigator valve (if applicable) does not as a minimum have a manual isolation valve and master solenoid installed.
• The leak is on vacant land or a property under construction, uncapped meters and open-end meters with no standpipe.
• The property is subject to a 'Special Agreement' provided under Water Corporation's Major Consumer Framework e.g. a mining company with high water use demand who has a special service condition.

Please note: A waterwise irrigator may complete irrigation repairs only and is not allowed to repair leaks on your internal plumbing service or install manual isolation or backflow prevention devices.

Applying for a leak allowance

To apply there’s a few things you’ll need:

• Your latest bill – you’ll need to provide your account number, verify your water use amount in kilolitres (kL) or water use charges. All this information can be found on your bill. Please visit  understanding your water bill to learn more about where to find the information you need
• Your meter number
• Your current meter reading or meter reading following the repairs
• A digital copy of the repair invoice from your licensed plumber or waterwise garden irrigator.

Checking on the progress of your application

Once you’ve applied for a leak allowance our team will confirm the outcome within 20 business days.

If you’re granted an allowance, the amount you receive will be credited to your account and appear on your next bill.