Salem, Oregon
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Public Works Dispatch Communications Center
Public Works Department
1410 20th St. SE
Building 2
Salem, OR 97302-1200
503-588-6311
Hours
Monday - Sunday
24 hours a day
How to Detect a Water Leak
If you think you have a water leak, take the following steps:
- Turn off all water faucets, sprinklers, washing machines, or any other water supply.
- Locate the water meter. Water meters are frequently located in the sidewalk near the building, but could also be in a yard or right-of-way area. If you are unable to locate your water meter, call Public Works Dispatch Communications Center at 503‑588‑6311.
- Once you have located the water meter, remove the metal lid with a standard screw driver.
- Once the metal lid is removed, lift and remove the concrete cover.
- Check the water meter to see if the flow detector (a small red or black marker on the top of the water meter) is moving.
- Assess the size of the leak.
- If the flow detector moves, then stops, then moves again, it is a good indication that your toilet valve is leaking or that there may be a very small leak.
- If the flow detector moves slowly, it is a good indication that you have a small leak.
- If the flow detector moves rapidly, it is a good indication that you have a larger leak or break in your line.
- Make repairs, as needed.
- Once repairs are made to stop the leak, contact the Utility Customer Care Center at 503-588-6099, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to see if you are eligible for a billing adjustment.