Managing leaks

Leaks can happen for many reasons. Learn how to spot and fix leaks on your property.

The impact of water leaks in Australia

Leaks waste 19% of all water used

That’s 900 billion litres of water wasted – enough to supply 3.4 million homes.
Approximately $1200 lost per home

Unnoticed leaks cost Australian homeowners between $300 to $1200 extra each year.
24% of property insurance claims

Water damage costs Australians more than fire and burglary, with an average insurance claim of $5,000.

Close up photograph of water run-off on a street next to a curb and grass

How to check for leaks

Some leaks are easy to spot, like a dripping tap or a damp patch on your lawn, but others may be harder to detect. Use our handy guides to learn how to check for leaks around your home.

Check for leaks

Flooded street in Melbourne with property with white fence in the background.

Seepage and soakage

Seepage, also known as soakage, is unwanted water that has not been directed through a formed channel or drain.

Find out more

Hand holding an orange hose-head spraying water into a vegetable garden.

Saving water

With some simple and easy behaviour changes we can all reach Target 150 – it’s the equivalent of everyone using one less bucket of water every day.

Association of Public Authority Surveyors (Daniel Voysey), 'Assessing the Detectability of Underground Water Pipe Leaks with Non-Invasive Technologies' 2023
Build It, 'These hidden water leaks are costing you $1200 a year' 2024
QBE, 'Water damage insurance claims remain high despite more Aussies working from home' 2021.

Leaks waste 19% of all water used

Approximately $1200 lost per home

24% of property insurance claims

How to check for leaks

Seepage and soakage

Saving water

References