How to spot water leaks in your Richmond home

A small drip today could cost you hundreds tomorrow

Thames Water has published updated guidance for Richmond residents on spotting leaks before they turn into expensive repair bills. With Victorian-era pipes beneath many local streets and older housing stock throughout the borough, knowing the early warning signs can save both water and money. The advice translates official guidance into practical checks you can do this week.

Signs to watch for indoors

Your water meter tells the truth.

Check your meter reading last thing at night, then first thing in the morning before anyone uses water. If the numbers have changed overnight, you have a leak somewhere in your system. Look for damp patches on walls or ceilings, particularly near bathrooms and kitchens, and listen for the sound of running water when all taps are off. A toilet cistern that refills on its own is one of the most common culprits, wasting litres every hour without obvious signs. Water stains, peeling paint, or a musty smell in cupboards under sinks often signal slow leaks that have been present for weeks.

Catching a leak in its first days rather than its third month can be the difference between a simple washer replacement and a full replastering job.

Winter offers the clearest clues: when your heating is off and taps are closed, a still-spinning water meter means water is going somewhere it should not be.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check if my toilet is leaking?

Add a few drops of food colouring to the cistern, then wait 15 minutes without flushing. If colour appears in the bowl, the flush valve is leaking and needs replacing.

Will Thames Water fix leaks inside my property?

Thames Water is responsible for the pipe bringing water to your property boundary. Leaks inside your home or on your side of the boundary are your responsibility to repair, though your home insurance may cover the cost.

How much water does a small leak waste?

A dripping tap can waste over 5,000 litres a year. A leaking toilet cistern can waste three times that amount, adding noticeably to your water bill if you are on a meter.