Does a higher water bill mean a care home has a leak?

Not on its own; compare actual meter readings with activity in the home, because occupancy, laundry loads or a faulty toilet can change consumption. A higher bill alone does not establish that an underground pipe is leaking.

What to record when you suspect a leak

Keep a short, dated record of what changed and when, such as damp, meter readings and pressure changes, without entering any resident personal information.

  • Dates and photographs of visible damp
  • Meter readings and the times they were taken
  • Pressure changes on the affected heating system
  • Rooms or services affected
  • Recent plumbing work or attempted repairs

What to tell ADI when you first call about a leak

Tell ADI whether the problem is continuous, follows rainfall or appears when a particular bathroom is used, as the pattern helps decide the investigation. The team can then discuss any preparation needed.

Service information: ADI’s commercial leak detection service. Content reviewed September 2026. Confirm the scope and site arrangements directly with ADI.