A persistently wet strip between the meter and house during dry weather.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS
When this type of leak deserves attention
Leaking buried water-service pipes, wet areas along the route and supply pressure changes.
An unusual utility bill and water-meter movement with all fixtures off.
Reduced pressure at several fixtures without an obvious indoor leak.
A sudden soft spot or erosion near the suspected service-line route.
SMART FIRST STEPS
What homeowners can safely check before service
Check for obvious water use
Turn off indoor fixtures and consider irrigation or outdoor hoses before assuming a buried line has failed.
Contact the water provider if appropriate
Ask the utility to clarify which sections of the service are theirs and which are the owner's responsibility.
Keep excavation safe
Do not dig to find a buried leak without utility-location procedures and a safe work plan.
Arrange line testing
A plumber may isolate the service and evaluate pressure loss, meter readings and likely pipe routing.
If water is flooding the property or there is a risk of electrocution, leave the unsafe area and seek appropriate emergency help. Never break concrete or excavate near utilities on a guess.
DIAGNOSE, THEN DECIDE
How a responsible repair plan is determined
Confirm whether the leak is on customer-owned plumbing or the utility-owned system before proposing work.
A local repair may be suitable when the pipe is accessible and otherwise sound.
A deteriorated or repeatedly failing service line may be better replaced with material appropriate to the property.