Leak detection in Atlanta

Checks you can do

• Meter test: read the meter before and after two hours with no water use (EPA WaterSense).
• Toilets: put food coloring in the tank and see if color reaches the bowl without flushing (EPA WaterSense).
• Faucets: listen for drips and look under sinks for puddles or water spots (EPA WaterSense).
• Irrigation: walk each zone while it runs (EPA WaterSense).
• Pressure: EPA WaterSense says pressure much lower than 45 psi may mean a leak to find and fix (EPA WaterSense).

When a specialist helps

Atlanta Watershed Management says not all leaks leave visible or audible evidence, a running toilet may not be easy to detect, plumbers often can't identify some leaks, and a specialized leak detection company may be needed, especially for underground leaks between the meter and the building (Atlanta Watershed Management).

Why it's worth finding

EPA WaterSense says the average household's leaks can waste more than 9,300 gallons a year (EPA WaterSense). In Atlanta, a leak adjustment requires proof that the leak existed and was repaired (Atlanta Watershed Management), so keep the detection report.

Checking the plumber

Georgia licenses plumbers through the Secretary of State. The state does not register plumbing companies, and only licensed master plumbers may run a plumbing business (Georgia Secretary of State). A Class I master plumber license covers single-family homes and one-level homes for up to two families; Class II has no restrictions (Georgia Secretary of State). Ask for the master plumber's name and check it in the state's licensee search.

Common questions

A wall is wet. Is that a leak detection job?

Often a plumber can trace it. If drywall is soaked, see leaks behind drywall.