The short answer
Check for Leaks First
A sudden spike in your water bill often points to a leak. Start with the easiest places: a running toilet, a dripping faucet, or a leaky hose connection. You can check your water meter by turning off all water inside and outside, then see if the meter still moves. If it does, you have a leak somewhere.
Look for signs of water damage like damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors, especially near pipes. A hidden pipe break can waste hundreds of gallons a day. If you find water pooling or soaked drywall, that is a sign you need professional water extraction and drying to prevent mold and structural issues.
Look at Your Water Habits
Your own usage can change without you noticing. A new household member, more guests, or extra laundry can raise your bill. Also, summer watering for lawns or gardens often spikes usage. If you filled a pool or increased irrigation, that could explain the increase.
Consider whether you left a hose running or had a sprinkler on longer than usual. Even small changes like taking longer showers add up. Review your past bills to see if the increase is seasonal or sudden. If it is sudden and you cannot find a leak, you may need to inspect your plumbing.
Inspect Appliances and Fixtures
Old or faulty appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can leak slowly. Check the connections behind these appliances for moisture or corrosion. Also, check your water softener or whole-house filter, as these can malfunction and waste water.
A dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons a year. A silent toilet leak is even worse. You can test for a toilet leak by putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank and waiting a short while. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak. Fixing these small issues can lower your bill significantly.
Look for Underground Leaks
Sometimes the leak is outside, in the pipe between your house and the water meter. This can be hard to spot because water may seep into the ground without surfacing. Check for unusually green or soggy areas in your yard, or a sudden drop in water pressure.
If you suspect an underground leak, you may need a plumber to locate it. However, if water has already entered your crawlspace or foundation, you might need professional water extraction and drying. Water damage in these areas can lead to mold and rot, so address it quickly.
Understand Your Bill and Meter
Your water bill may be estimated rather than based on an actual reading. Check your bill to see if it says "estimated" or "actual." If it is estimated, the utility may have overestimated your usage. Contact your water provider to confirm your meter reading.
Also, check if your bill includes sewer or garbage charges that may have increased. Sometimes the water portion is fine, but other fees rise. If you have a leak, your sewer charge might be based on your water usage, so fixing the leak helps both. If you find water damage, document it for your insurance claim, but remember: policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Redmond and nearby communities.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if I have a hidden leak?
Turn off all water inside and outside, then watch your water meter for a short period. If it moves, you have a leak. Also, listen for running water in walls or floors. A plumber can help locate hidden leaks.
What should I do if I find water damage?
Act quickly to stop the water source if you can. Then, remove standing water and dry the area to prevent mold. For significant water damage, local water damage pros can handle extraction and drying. Document everything for your insurance claim.
Could a high bill be a mistake?
Yes, billing errors happen. Compare your current bill to previous ones. Check your meter reading against the bill. If you suspect an error, contact your water provider. They may re-read your meter or check for leaks on their side.