The short answer
Check for Leaks in Your Home
Start by inspecting all visible plumbing. Look under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for drips or pooling water. Listen for the sound of running water when all fixtures are off. A running toilet or a slow drip from a faucet can waste hundreds of gallons, significantly raising your bill after a storm's disruption.
Don't forget to check your water meter. Turn off all water inside and outside your home. Watch the small leak indicator on the meter; if it moves, you have a leak. This simple test can confirm a problem before you call a plumber to locate the exact source of the water loss.
Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation
Storm winds can break sprinkler heads or shift pipes, causing major underground leaks in your irrigation system. Even a small crack can release a steady stream of water for days. Walk your property, looking for unusually soggy patches or areas where grass is much greener, which can signal a leak below the surface.
Examine all hose bibs and outdoor faucets. High winds can damage these fixtures, causing them to drip or spray. Ensure the handles are fully closed and the connections are tight. If you have a pool, check its automatic fill system and equipment pad for any malfunctions that could be wasting city water.
Underground Supply Line Damage
The main water line from the street to your house is vulnerable. Soil shifting from saturated ground or fallen tree roots can crack this pipe. This type of leak is serious, as it can erode soil and potentially affect your foundation. You may hear water running or see a constant wet area in your yard.
Fixing a main line leak requires a professional plumber. They locate the break, often with specialized equipment, and excavate to repair it. The cost for this repair depends on the pipe's depth and location, the extent of excavation needed, and local labor rates. A broad range is often $500 to $3,000 or more.
- Listen for a hissing or rushing sound near your water meter or foundation.
- Look for unexplained damp spots, sinkholes, or extra-lush grass in a specific line.
- Check your water meter with all water off; a moving dial confirms a leak.
- Monitor your water pressure; a sudden drop can indicate a major line break.
- Note any dirt or air in your home's water fixtures, which can signal pipe damage.
- If you suspect this, contact a plumber for a leak detection service.
When to Call for Professional Help
If you've checked common areas and your meter still indicates a leak, it's time for a plumber. They have electronic listening devices and pressure tests to find hidden leaks in walls or under slabs. Prompt repair prevents further water damage, mold growth, and escalating water costs. In Boca Raton, knowing who to call for plumbing can save time.
For any water that has leaked into your home's structure, you may need water damage restoration. Wet drywall, insulation, and flooring need proper drying to prevent mold. Local water damage pros use industrial equipment like dehumidifiers and air movers to dry areas effectively. This step is separate from fixing the pipe but is often crucial.
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Call (561) 794-2954 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (561) 794-2954Frequently asked questions
Could the water company's meter be wrong?
It's possible but rare. Meters can malfunction, but weather events typically don't cause this. First, rule out leaks in your home and irrigation. You can request the utility to test your meter. They will check its accuracy and explain the process, which may involve a fee if the meter is found to be working correctly.
Will my homeowners insurance cover the high bill or leak repair?
Insurance might cover the cost to repair damage from a sudden, accidental leak, like a burst pipe. However, it typically won't pay for the water that was lost or the higher utility bill itself. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy and report any related property damage promptly.
How can I prevent this after future storms?
Before storm season, inspect outdoor faucets and irrigation for wear. Know where your main water shutoff valve is so you can turn it off quickly if a pipe breaks. Insulate exposed pipes if cold weather is forecast. After a storm, do a visual check of your property for wet spots to catch leaks early.