Power and Water’s annual Leak Check Program wrapped up in Katherine recently, finding that a staggering one in five homes has a potential leak.

Living Water Smart Program Manager, Jethro Laidlaw, says it’s important to keep on top of potential leaks, which is why we have our team help out.

“Not only is our water precious and should be valued, it can also inadvertently cost you a lot of money,” Mr Laidlaw said.

“Over 15 days, some 2,200 homes and businesses had their water meters checked to identify any leaks.

“Our team of leak checkers made their way around town carrying out the simple 2 - 6 minute inspection at the water meter.

“This year, we identified 389 possible leaks. The largest leak found was measured at over 234 litres an hour, which over 12 months would cost $4062 if left unfixed.

Collectively, all the leaks found totalled a huge 12,473 litres per hour – that’s 109,268,829 litres at an annual value of $214,303.

“Imagine completely refilling the Katherine town pool 44 times in one year, that’s the equivalent of the volume of water we are talking about.”

Any homes or businesses that had a possible leak detected are encouraged to use our Leak Find and Fix Rebate program through one of Power and Water’s registered plumbers.

"Please take advantage of our $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate, it’s been designed to help confirm, find and help fix a leak using one of our registered plumbers. You can find a list of our plumbers at livingwatersmart.com.au/katherine,” added Mr Laidlaw.

Since the program has been running, over 1400 residents have taken advantage of a $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate to locate and repair leaks.

Over the past four years, the award winning Community Leak Program has identified over 1,764 potential leaks in Katherine homes and businesses.