Generally speaking, if the leak is found to be between the water meter and your house – then you are responsible for repairing it. But if the leak is between the water meter and the city’s main water line, then your local water department is responsible for fixing and/or replacing the unit.
It may also be that there are multiple problems contributing to the issue so the very first step is to call in a plumber to assess the situation.
But, you should still know what the signs are of a main water line leak.
8 Signs Your Main Water Line May Be Leaking
Here are 8 signs that tell you that you may have a problem with your main water line and that it’s now leaking.
1. You Notice Water Where There Shouldn’t Be Any
If you see puddles of water in any of these areas where there shouldn’t be any water…
a. under the kitchen sink
b. under the bathroom sink
c. anywhere on the floor
d. in the yard
e. by your sidewalk
f. running into the street by your home
Then you may have a leak in your main water line.
2. Sinkholes
If your suddenly noticing a sinkyard (or more than one) in your yard then you may be having a major leak in your main water line.
3. Strange Noises That Sound Like They’re Coming From Your Pipes
If you hear odd sounds like gurgling or whistling or even a hissing sound and they seem to be coming from your water pipes – this could be a sign of a broken pipe or leak.
4. Water Pressure Issues
If you suddenly notice that your water pressure is lower than it has been – this is commonly an issue due to a leak in your plumbing system and/or main water line.
5. Signs Of Water Damage
Any sign of water damage anywhere in your home are a clear sign that there’s a problem with your plumbing system.
This could be signs of water damage on your walls, ceiling and/or floors. You may even notice cracks in your home’s foundation, patio, sidewalk, driveway or walkway.
6. Mold and Mildew
Where there’s water damage, there’s often mold and mildew. If you notice this then this is usually a very clear sign that you’ve been having a leak for a long time. Long enough for mold to grow and then to be visibly seen.
7. Brownish Water
Any discolored water (but it’s usually a brownish color) is a clear sign that there’s a break somewhere along your plumbing system and it’s most usually your main water line.
8. Smelly Water
Sometimes the water that comes out of your faucet doesn’t turn brown right away but it does have an awful smell. If you notice this, know that it may be an issue with your main water line.
What To Do If You Suspect A Main Water Line Problem?
Immediately contact a plumber to come and assess the situation.
As we stated earlier, it may be that the problem is directly related to your main water line and you may have to contact your city’s local water department for repairs.
But, the problem may also be contributed by your home’s plumbing system and if that is the case, then you are responsible for those repairs.
Either way, a plumber can tell you what the issue(s) are and how to get them resolved.
If you have any questions about your main water line or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.