The Water Corp leak allowance is a rebate of up to 50% of the estimated water lost due to a hidden leak. It’s available to property owners who’ve experienced a significant increase in their water bill due to an undetected plumbing or irrigation issue.
This allowance is intended to help cover the cost of the unexpected water usage but it won’t cover the cost of repair work or service fees. Each leak allowance application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

To be eligible for the leak allowance, your leak must meet Water Corp’s definition of a hidden leak.

“A hidden leak is one that isn’t visible and is often caused by a cracked or broken pipe buried underground, inside walls, or under paving and driveways.”

These types of leaks can go unnoticed for weeks or months, quietly adding to your water account.

Leaks that are NOT considered hidden include:

• Dripping taps (internal or external)
• Faulty toilet cisterns
• Leaking hot water systems, dishwashers, or washing machines
• Leaks from water features such as swimming pools, spas or ponds

Visible leaks and leaks in water appliances generally won’t qualify for the Water Corp water leak allowance.

Before you apply for a leak allowance with Water Corp, it’s important to make sure your situation ticks all the boxes. You may be eligible if:

• The leak was hidden and not easily detectable.
• Your water usage was unusually high (over 150kL or more than $250 on your latest bill).
• You’ve had plumbing or irrigation repairs completed by a licensed professional.
• Irrigation repairs meet irrigation industry standards, with a master control solenoid and manual isolation valve installed.
• The repair was completed within 60 days of noticing the leak or receiving a high-use notification.
• You’ve submitted your leak allowance application within 6 months of the repair.
• You are currently occupying or maintaining the property.

If the repair work involves your irrigation system, it must be completed by a certified Waterwise Garden Irrigator. They can’t fix internal plumbing issues, but they can handle external irrigation leaks and ensure your setup complies with Water Corp requirements.

Some of the most common culprits behind hidden water leaks include:

• Cracked underground pipes
• Faulty joins in irrigation systems
• Leaks in piping under concrete or driveways
• Corroded pipework in wall cavities
• Failing master solenoids in garden irrigation setups

If your irrigation repairs weren’t completed to meet industry standards, your application may be denied.

You may not be eligible for a Water Corp water leak allowance if:

• The leak was clearly visible and could have been fixed earlier.
• Repairs weren’t done by a licensed plumber or Waterwise Garden Irrigator.
• The property is vacant, under construction, or not properly maintained.
• The plumbing or irrigation system isn’t government-compliant
• No manual isolation valve or master solenoid was installed (where applicable).

It’s also worth noting that special-use properties like mining sites or those under major consumer agreements aren’t eligible.

Ready to apply for a leak allowance? Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

• Your latest water bill (with your account number and estimated water lost)
• Your water meter number
• A current water meter reading taken after the repairs
• A copy of the repair invoice from your licensed plumber or garden irrigator

Water Corp recommends applying as soon as your plumbing or irrigation repairs are completed. Applications must be submitted within six months of the repair date.

Once you’ve submitted your leak allowance application, Water Corp will review your case and let you know the outcome within 20 business days. If approved, the leak allowance credit will appear on your next bill. While the process isn’t automatic, it can lead to significant savings.

If you still require more information about Water Corp’s leak allowance, view these guidelines.