Nelson City Council

Did you know water leaks on private property are your responsibility? You can check for a water leak easily. These are simple tests that are easy to do. If you feel unable to check this yourself, perhaps you could get a friend or relative to help you. Please be aware that not all leaks go through the meter. For example, leaks in the right of way to your property can still be your responsibility.

Step 1

Ensure no water is being used at the moment within the property boundary, eg toilet cistern or hot water header tank filling up, washing machine/dishwasher running through a cycle, or garden hose.

Step 2

Locate your water meter - this is in the black plastic box usually located near the front outside boundary of the property. If your property is on a cross lease or down a right of way, the meter is often located nearer the house, on a private supply line. The Water Customer Service Helpline is +64 3 546 0204 and they can help if you have trouble locating the meter box.

Step 3

Look to see if any of the dials on the meter are moving. If they are, and you are sure no water is being used, this is a good indication that there is aleak somewhere on your property. The best dials to check are the red ones as indicated below.

Step 4

Check for signs of where the leak may be around your property:

• water appearing on concrete or sealed areas
• a boggy patch in the lawn or garden
• dripping overflow pipe
• leaking tap inside or outside

Step 5

Call a plumber of your choice to have your leak repaired.

Once your leak has been fixed

It is possible to have your account reassessed after you have had your leak fully repaired. However, not all leaks will qualify for a reassessment. If you are in doubt as to whether you qualify, you can check with the Water Customer Service Helpline on +64 3 546 0204 first.

If you would like to apply to have your account reassessed, you need to give your request including documentation to Council within one month of the date of repair. Provide the following:

• Proof of the work having been done such as a copy of the plumber's invoice and details as to where the leak was on the invoice.
• Number of adults and children living in the property and how long they have been living there.
• Full contact details including name, address, and daytime phone number or email address.

Post, fax or email to:

Attention: Water
Nelson City Council
PO Box 645
Nelson 7040
Fax +64 3 546 0239
Email: water@ncc.govt.nz

Also, note that any reassessments must be applied for by the owner and not the tenant if the property is rented.

Do you own a rental property?

Please be aware that as the property owner, you, not the tenant, are responsible to Nelson City Council for payment of the water account. All correspondence will be addressed to the person to whom the water and rates invoices are sent. Should you have a property manager, you as the owner will need to pass on all relevant information.

Council staff are not permitted to give tenants any information about water accounts and will not be responsible for sorting out any tenant payments or payment disputes.

Please remember

No one wants to waste water. A dripping tap can waste over 1,000 litres (one cubic metre) of water each day, while an average 5kg washing machine uses about 120 litres for a single wash.

Water leaks within your property are your responsibility. If you do the simple meter check given above on a regular basis, you will help prevent water being wasted which is a big help to everyone.

Council appreciates being notified of any excess water wastage or leaks that you may have noted through the city.