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Environmental Services

Fix a Water Leak

Three steps: check, twist, replace

1.

Check

  • Look for dripping faucets, showerheads, sprinklers, and other fixtures.
  • Look for silent toilet leaks by dropping food coloring into the tank to see if it appears in the bowl before you flush. Call 503-618-2525 or email Eric.Jones@GreshamOregon.gov for free leak detector dye tablets.  
  • Read your meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter changes at all, you probably have a leak.
  • Check irrigation systems and spigots.
2.

Twist

Twist and tighten the hose and pipe connections.

3

Replace, if necessary

WaterSense faucet aerators use 20% less water and perform as well as or better than standard models.

Need additional assistance?

If you've received a letter indicating you have a leak, call Utility Billing Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm, at 503-618-2373.

Make repairs and apply for utility bill leak adjustment 

  • If you suspect you have a leak, you may want to hire a professional leak detection company to pinpoint its exact location and a licensed contractor to perform the repairs. Leaks that are repaired in a timely manner may be eligible for an adjustment to the utility bill.
  • The property owner is responsible for water pipes from the meter to the house. 
  • A permit may be required for repairs. Apply for a permit.

Request a utility bill leak adjustment. 

Leak adjustment policy 

  • Each leak adjustment request receives individual review.
  • Approved leak adjustments are for water consumption units only.
  • If approved, a leak adjustment is for no more than 50% of the leak units during the leak period compared to the same period last year.
  • Water loss due to theft or vandalism is not covered and is the responsibility of the customer.
  • Repairs must be made within 30 days after the leak is discovered, or from notification from the City of a possible leak, whichever is first.

Private water line insurance

Considering water line protection services? 

  • Customers are responsible for water line breaks and repairs on their side of the meter.
  • Mailings offering insurance for private water line repairs are not affiliated with the City, nor does the City endorse this type of service.

Contact your homeowner's insurance provider to find out if water lines are covered under your policy.

Water emergencies

If you're having a water emergency that's causing property damage, or a notable drop in water pressure or flow volume, a water main break, discolored water, sewer back-up or flooding, call us at: 

  • Business hours: 503-618-2373
  • Outside business hours: 503-661-3906