It may be difficult to know whether to call a plumber or your water utility if you suspect a water leak, but as a professional, a plumber should be your answer if you’re asked, “Who do you call for a water leak?” 

A plumber is trained to furnish, fit, and repair pipes and other apparatus for the conveyance of water, gas, or drainage. 

A plumber will help you detect and fix water leaks in your home or advise you to contact your water utility where necessary.

Signs of a Water Leak

Here are some signs you have a leak in your house:

• There are puddles of water near a wall.
• There’s discoloration on the wall or ceiling.
• There’s a texture change in the wall or ceiling.
• There’s a musty smell.
• There are signs of mold and mildew.
• There are dripping sounds.

Leak Detection

Here’s how you can find hidden water leaks in your home before calling a plumber or your water utility for help:

• Turn off your faucets and check your water meter. If it’s still running, then you have a water leak.
• Turn off your faucets and measure the water pressure. If the pressure is lower than normal, then you probably have a leak.
• Listen for running water. If you hear water leaking through your walls and floors, then there’s a leak.
• Disconnect and check your appliances for water leaks.
• Check your toilet for leaks.
• Check your water bill for any sudden or unusual water usage.
• Check your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry area. If there’s dampness in any of these areas, then there’s a leak.

When to Call a Plumber 

Call a plumber if any of the following happens:

• You suspect a leak because of your high water bill.
• Your water meter is turning more than it should.
• Your water pressure is lower than normal.
• You can hear the sound of running water through your walls and floors.
• There are leaks in your toilet or appliances.
• There’s dampness in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry area.
• There’s a puddle in your driveway, and you suspect the water is coming from underground pipes, but the water meter is turning.

When to Call Your Water Utility

Call your water utility if this happens:

• There’s a puddle in your driveway, and you suspect the water is coming from underground pipes, but the water meter isn’t turning.

A water leak can increase your water utility bill and cause water damage. It can either come from your house lines or your water company’s lines, but be sure about who to contact. If you mistakenly call your water utility for a leak that ends up being on your property, you may be required to pay a service run fee. Hence, you should seek the help of a plumber first for leak detection, repair, and further action. 

 

How Plumbing 911 Can Help

Plumbing 911 is a reputable plumbing firm made up of professionals. Plumbing 911 offers full service for both residential and commercial properties, including everyday maintenance and emergency needs. Our professionals are skilled in fixing clogged drains and toilets, leaky and damaged faucets and pipes, low water pressure, running toilets, sump pumps, and water heaters. For a free inspection in your area, call Plumbing 911 at 1-866-720-0911, schedule an appointment today, or send an email. We cover Cuyahoga East, Cuyahoga West, Medina, Summit, Stark, Lake, and Geauga.