High water bill or a hidden leak

What you're probably seeing

The water bill jumped, or the meter moves with everything off.

Likely causes

• A running toilet (the most common cause).
• A leak inside a wall, under a slab or in the yard line.
• A dripping outdoor spigot or irrigation leak.

Safe checks you can do now

1. Turn every fixture off and watch the meter for 15 minutes.
2. Put food coloring in the toilet tank; color in the bowl means a leak.
3. Look for damp spots, stains or warm areas on floors.

When to call a pro

The meter still moves with everything off and the toilets are fine.

General information about common causes, not a diagnosis of your home.