Leak Detection in Boca Raton: what to know
Boca Raton homes inside city limits get water from Boca Raton Utility Services, while much of unincorporated west Boca, including many country club communities, is on Palm Beach County Water Utilities. A leak on the street side of the meter belongs to the utility, so the first test is always at the meter to see which side is losing water.
Bigger Boca homes have more places for a leak to hide: long runs to guest wings, two or more water heaters, a hot water recirculation loop, outdoor kitchens and a pool with an auto-fill. A plumber tests each of these on its own, so a leak in the recirculation line or pool fill is not mistaken for one under the main living area.
In east Boca neighborhoods from the 1960s and 1970s, such as Boca Square and Camino Gardens, the supply pipe is old enough that leak detection often ends in a conversation about the condition of the whole system, not just the one leak that was found.
For warning signs and how the work is done, see our leak detection guide, or see all plumbing help in Boca Raton.
Before the plumber arrives
- Check your bill to see whether you are on Boca Raton or Palm Beach County water, in case the utility needs to be called.
- Turn off the irrigation controller, pool auto-fill and any recirculation pump before watching the meter.
- If the home has a separate guest wing or casita, tell the plumber, since it may have its own lines and shut-off.
Leak Detection FAQs: Boca Raton
Who repairs a leak between the street and my meter in Boca Raton?
Usually your water utility, either Boca Raton Utility Services or Palm Beach County Water Utilities depending on your address. Leaks on the house side of the meter are the owner's responsibility.
Can a hot water recirculation line leak without me noticing?
Yes. The extra return line runs through walls and sometimes under the slab, and a leak there behaves like any other hot water leak: warm spots, a running meter or a higher bill. A plumber will test it separately.