High Water Bill in Gardena? How to Check for a Leak
A bill that suddenly jumps is one of the most common first signs of a hidden leak. Here is a short checklist to run before you call anyone.
Referral service: Gardena Water Line Pros is not a plumbing contractor. Your call may be connected to an independent, third-party service provider who sets its own availability, pricing and terms. Read our referral disclosure.
The short answer
Start with the easy causes. Golden State Water's FAQ says the two most common causes of higher than normal bills are irrigation issues and possible leaks. Check your sprinkler schedule, toilets and faucets, then check the meter with every water use turned off. If the meter still moves, water is flowing somewhere.
Step 1: Look at the bill itself
- Compare usage, not just the amount. Look at the same months from earlier bills. Summer irrigation can raise usage legitimately.
- Check the dates. Note the billing period and when the increase began, because a leak that started mid-period may show up as a smaller jump first.
- Note the meter reading. You'll want to compare it with a reading you take yourself.
Step 2: Rule out the usual suspects
- Irrigation. Check the controller schedule, run times and any zone that stays on. Look for spray heads that are broken or misting onto pavement. See sprinkler leak or main water line leak?
- Toilets. A running or silently leaking toilet is a common hidden source. EPA WaterSense suggests adding food coloring or a dye tablet to the tank and waiting 5 to 10 minutes without flushing. Color in the bowl means a leak.
- Faucets, hose bibs and appliances. Look for drips, wet cabinets and water heater or softener leaks.
Step 3: Read the meter
With all water off, watch the leak indicator for a couple of minutes, then compare two readings taken two hours apart. Golden State Water's FAQ says that if the needle keeps moving with all water off, you likely have a leak on the property. Our step-by-step meter guide shows how to narrow it down to inside the house or the service line.
The utility also links a High Bill Investigation Checklist from its FAQ page.
Step 4: Know who handles what
| Where the problem is | Who to contact |
|---|---|
| Street, hydrant, or main | Golden State Water. The utility says these leaks do not affect your bill. |
| Meter or meter box | Golden State Water |
| Between the meter and the house | Property owner. A plumbing provider can assess the service line. |
| Inside the house or in irrigation | Property owner. Fix the fixture, appliance or sprinkler. |
Talking to the utility
Golden State Water's customer service line is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (1-800-999-4033; see the contact page). Have your account number, the meter reading and the dates of the spike ready. Ask them to help read the meter and to explain what, if anything, can be adjusted on the account after a repair. Keep your repair invoice and photos.
This guide is general information. Bill, adjustment and responsibility rules are set by the utility and may change, so confirm details with Golden State Water. Gardena Water Line Pros is a referral service, not a plumbing contractor.
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Frequently asked questions
What causes a high water bill most often?
Golden State Water says the two most common causes of higher than normal bills are irrigation issues and possible leaks. Internal plumbing problems or leaks on the property can also raise a bill.
Who is responsible for a leak on my property?
Golden State Water says it maintains the pipes up to the water meter, and that leaks or issues beyond the meter are the property owner's responsibility. A leak in the street or at a hydrant is the utility's and will not affect your bill.
Will Golden State Water adjust my bill if I had a leak?
Golden State Water's FAQ says any account adjustments are made directly to your account, and that a credit balance can be refunded or applied to your bill. It does not describe a leak-adjustment program, so call the utility and ask what applies to your situation.
How do I know if the leak is inside or outside my house?
Close your main shut-off valve and check the meter's leak indicator. If it stops, the leak is likely inside the house or after the valve. If it keeps moving, the leak may be between the meter and the valve. Our meter guide explains the limits of this test.
Found a leak between the meter and your house?
Call to be connected with an independent provider, when one is available, to look at your water service line.
Referral service: Gardena Water Line Pros is not a plumbing contractor. Your call may be connected to an independent, third-party service provider who sets its own availability, pricing and terms. Read our referral disclosure.