How to Report a Water Leak in South Africa
Water is a scarce resource in South Africa, and unrepaired leaks waste millions of litres daily. Whether the leak is on the public network or on private property, knowing who to contact and how to report it correctly is important. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Reporting a water leak promptly saves water, reduces your risk of a high water bill, and prevents road and property damage.
Is the Leak Your Responsibility or the Municipality's?
The boundary of responsibility for water supply is generally the water meter. The municipality is responsible for all pipes and infrastructure from the water main up to and including the meter. The property owner is responsible for all plumbing from the meter onwards into the property.
If you see a leak between the road and the meter (including the connection pipe), it is the municipality's responsibility. If the leak is inside the property boundary beyond the meter, it is the property owner's responsibility to repair and pay for.
How to Report a Water Leak to Your Municipality
Water leaks are reported to the municipality, not to Eskom. Eskom is responsible for electricity supply only. Key contact numbers for reporting water leaks in major cities are listed below.
- Joburg Water (Johannesburg): 0860 56 28 74 or www.joburg.org.za
- City of Cape Town Water: 0860 103 089 or www.capetown.gov.za
- eThekwini Water (Durban): 080 031 3111
- City of Tshwane (Pretoria) Water: 012 358 9999
- Buffalo City (East London) Water: 043 705 9000
- Mangaung (Bloemfontein) Water: 051 405 8911
What to Do When You Spot a Leak
- Determine whether the leak is on private property or on the public network.
- If it is a burst main or significant public leak, call the municipality emergency water line immediately.
- Note the exact location of the leak (street address, nearest landmark, or GPS coordinates).
- If the leak is on your property, turn off your main water isolator valve to stop the flow.
- Call a registered plumber to repair leaks on private property.
- Log a fault reference number with the municipality for public leaks and follow up if not repaired within 24-48 hours.
- Document the leak with photographs and note the date and time of reporting.
High Water Bills Caused by Leaks
An undetected leak on private property can cause your water bill to spike dramatically. Common causes include a leaking toilet cistern, a burst geyser overflow pipe, or a leak underground. A toilet that runs continuously can waste up to 500 litres per day.
If you receive a significantly higher-than-normal water bill, check your toilet, taps, and geyser for leaks before contacting the municipality to dispute the account. Take meter readings at night (when no water is being used) and again 30 minutes later. Any increase indicates a leak.
Applying for a Leak Adjustment on Your Water Account
Some municipalities offer a once-off leak adjustment on a water account if a property owner can prove that a significant leak occurred on their private plumbing and has since been repaired. This is not a right but a discretionary concession.
To apply, you typically need to submit a plumber's invoice proving the repair, your account number, and a completed application form. Contact your municipality's revenue department for details.
Preventing Water Leaks
- Have plumbing inspected by a professional plumber every two to three years
- Insulate pipes in areas prone to extreme cold temperatures to prevent freezing and bursting
- Install a pressure-reducing valve if your water pressure is very high
- Replace rubber washers in taps every few years to prevent dripping
- Check your geyser overflow pipe regularly for continuous dripping (this indicates a faulty temperature/pressure relief valve)
- Install a smart water meter or leak detector for early warning of underground leaks