Denver, CO
Leak detection for Denver service lines and meter pits
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
Denver Water maintains the mains; property owners own the service line and the meter pit, and the line runs from the tap at the main to the valve at the house or meter. Denver Water isn't responsible for water damage from a service line or indoor plumbing, so finding a leak early with professional detection matters.
What's different in Denver
Denver Water maintains and replaces water mains; property owners are responsible for the service lines and meter pits at their address. [1]
The dividing point is where the property taps the main, or the discharge side of the valve closest to the main; the service line includes pipe up to the stop-and-waste valve for an outside meter, or the valve downstream of an inside meter. [1]
The service line is owned and installed at the owner's expense, and Denver Water isn't responsible for water damage caused by a service line or internal plumbing. [1]
Signs your Denver service line is leaking
- A wet or sunken spot between the street and the house in dry weather.
- The meter's leak indicator moving with every fixture off.
- Water in the meter pit.
- Lower pressure along with a higher bill.
How a leak is pinpointed
| Method | What it does |
|---|---|
| Acoustic listening | Hears water escaping under pressure through the ground |
| Line tracing | Maps the service line's path |
| Pressure testing | Confirms which section is losing water |
Freeze and the meter pit
An outdoor meter pit is part of what you own. Keep the lid in place and insulated in winter; a cracked or missing lid lets cold reach the meter and line. For burst pipes, see what to do after a burst pipe.
Further reading: Signs of a slab leak.
What Denver homeowners usually check next
- SymptomSigns of a hidden leak
- SymptomWater bill suddenly high
- SymptomWater leaking from the ceiling
Common questions
Who owns the meter pit at a Denver home?
The property owner, along with the service line.
Where does Denver Water's responsibility end?
At the tap on the main, or the discharge side of the valve closest to the main.
Will Denver Water pay for damage from my leaking service line?
No; it isn't responsible for damage from a service line or internal plumbing.
What is a stop-and-waste valve?
The valve at the house end of the service line for an outside meter setting; the line up to it is the owner's.
How do I check for a leak in Denver?
Turn off all water and watch the meter's leak indicator.
Why is there water in my Denver meter pit?
Often a leak at a fitting, the meter connections or the service line nearby.
How do plumbers find a buried leak?
With acoustic listening, line tracing and pressure tests.
Should I insulate my Denver meter pit lid?
Yes; a sound, insulated lid helps keep the meter and line from freezing.
Does homeowners insurance cover Denver service line damage?
Check your policy; Denver Water suggests confirming coverage.
Who installs a new Denver service line?
It's installed at the owner's expense by a licensed contractor.
More plumbing help in Denver
- Water Line Repair in DenverHow Denver Water replaces customer-owned lead service lines with copper at no direct cost, which homes are most likely affected, and what to do while you wait.
- Backflow Testing in DenverDenver Water's backflow rules: annual testing, the May–September irrigation testing season, required device types, 30-day reminders, and where results go.
- Toilet Installation in DenverDenver Water's toilet rebate: up to $100 for a WaterSense toilet averaging 0.8 gallon per flush or less, two per home per 10 years, apply within 90 days.
- Leak Detection: the full guideSigns of a hidden water leak, the meter test you can do yourself, and how plumbers find leaks with acoustic, thermal and pressure testing.
- Plumbing in DenverLocal water, housing and climate conditions, and the calls Denver homes need most.
How other cities handle it
Sources (1)
- Denver Water, Homeowner responsibility · checked 2026-10-03