Check for water use when everything is off.
A water meter can show whether water is moving through the supply when you are not intentionally using it. Check only a meter you can safely and lawfully access, and avoid moving utility covers or touching utility valves.
Stop intentional water use.
Turn off faucets and avoid using toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, irrigation, and other water-using equipment during the check. Account for automatic cycles.
Record the reading.
Take a photograph or write down the meter reading, units, and time. Some meters also have a low-flow indicator. Do not tamper with the meter.
Wait, then compare.
Leave water use off for 30–60 minutes and check the reading again. A change indicates water has passed through the meter, though automatic equipment may explain it.
Share what you observed.
Note the amount and duration of the change. If you cannot identify an intended use, include the observations in a service request.
What the result tells you
The test can reveal unexplained use on a metered supply. It does not locate a leak, test drain pipes, or reliably rule out intermittent problems. A shared meter also includes water use elsewhere on the property.
Explore other checks