We recently turned on the water for a new property so that we could begin renovating it (3 small houses on a single large lot). The water had been shut off to this property for at least 2 years, probably more like 3-4 years. We got it turned on in mid-February for basic usage (toilet, faucet) while we fix up the units, and were stunned when we got a huge bill; the private water company claimed we'd used ​almost 116,000 gallons of water in 12 days. We complained, but they said we must have had a leak.


We checked the pipes, but couldn't find a leak. We hoped the bill was a fluke, given that there was no leak, but for the next month the meter read that we'd used almost 407,000 gallons over 28 days! (so almost 523,000 gallons over 40 days)


The following month usage fell on its own to 37,400 gallons over 30 days. I should mention, during all this time we didn't have any tenants there yet (we didn't even have water heaters installed yet). We just had one toilet working and used two faucets. Our personal usage didn't change dramatically from when we started renovating the units.


I'm trying to determine what explanation there could be for this. We don't believe there was a leak because 1) our own investigation--including digging to the pipeline--never found anything; and 2) the pipes are only one feet underground, so if 523K gallons of water was coming out somewhere, we think we would've seen a pool of water or some wetness somewhere on the property (there was never any wetness).


My research has determined that it's possible the pipes had air in them and that the meter was reading that. We did notice that when we used the faucets, air would always come out first before water. But is it possible air could account for that high of a reading? And if not, what else could explain it, and also the fact the "water usage" has dropped so much from our first to latest bill? Also, any advice for what to say to the water company? They've been adamant that the meter is right and that we must've initially had a leak (although they finally sent someone to read the meter recently and are now saying there is no leak and that we must've repaired it, which we didn't do since we never found one to begin with).

Two things may be happening:

1. Faulty water meter
2. Underground leak

Underground leaks are common cause of high water bills. I would start with inspecting your irrigation system, then water main pipe, and all garden hose valves on the property. Close main water valve on side of your house, then go take a look at the water meter. See if the flow indicator spins

Other than that, plumbing system is a closed, pressurized system of pipes. Leaks inside the house should be obvious are easy to detect, a.i. wet floors, walls, ceilings, etc.

I personally do not believe in the "air in the pipes" theory. It is simply way too far fetched concept to be considered as a valid point in your search for the cause of your high water usage

As far as "faulty meter" theory goes, here you will have to do some talking to make somebody from Water Co. to come over and replace the meter. To be on safe side, I would ask for replacement.

If you cannot find any obvious signs of leaks, and high water bills continue, I suggest you call licensed plumber with leak detector tool. He will locate the leak in no time.

Hope that helps

Milo

I would take a reading, then another reading a couple of hours later(longer the better), don't use any water at this time. Maybe even shut off toilet supplies(sure you have eliminated flappers}Read again. If usage is shown, you likely have a leak.
We had a high water bill when we bought our house, ended up being a leak in the galvanized pipe that ran through the slab. Had to abandon and run new conduits, you will likely not see a wet spot as you would in the yard. About a year later the Hotwater had a leak under the slab as well? Good Luck

Where are the various shut offs ( if not, you need them to the various locations.
But I agree it really sounds like an underground leak. You can ask them to change the meter and then have all water turned off, to every property and if the meter still runs, you know there is a leak. (common in property that has not been used in years)

Formally dispute that part of your bill that you think is erroneous. It is common for water companies to have high estimates until they actually read your meter and make adjustments after water has been shut off for so long.

They must give you an accurate bill along with associated fees and taxes, which may include sewer charges. That stuff adds up, and may have been prorated from the last bill reading. Here is an interesting article that may guide you in the right direction.

Ways to Dispute High Water Bills - Budgeting Money

And

3 Ways To Dispute Utility Bills, Cable Bills | Bankrate.com

I know, a tedious, time consuming process to be sure. You have a right to correct errors and utility companies are not that quick to help you at all, they just want you to go away... and PAY.

That would be the equivalent of several swimming pools of water. Hard to imagine a leaking pipe of that magnitude. 13,000 gallons a day?? That's about 10 gallons a minute. Might want to invite the water company to come out and speculate where all that water is going.

Did you pay any water bills for the last 3-4 years prior to having water meter turned ON last February ?



Thank you

Milo

Sure would love to know how this was resolved.