Here are the three basic steps to check for a water line leak.
Main water line leak in basement.
Most repair materials do.
When the ground is saturated in from a leak the water may have no place flow freely but into your basement.
When speaking to the 311 operator of the dep it is important to clearly state that the call is not regarding a sewer issue and is specifically regarding a main water line leak issue.
First it will help stop the leak and prevent more water from entering your basement if the leak is after the valve.
When homeowners notice bubbling water in the street it is advisable to get plumbing services immediately.
Secondly closing the 1st main control valve will help you make sure that the leak is coming from the main line.
Any sump pit should have a battery operated sump pump alarm installed several inches below the cover to alert any homeowner of potential backup however.
This is typically most noticeable at night when the house is quiet.
Many times shifting soil or a house settling can create a gap around the pipe and an escape route for water before it reaches the foundation drain pipe.
The most common sign in becoming aware of a water leak is observing a stream of water.
Dirt gravel sand and debris can collect in the pit and the drain causing a backup of water.
Water always seeks its way towards the weakest point in the ground or through a wall.
That would mean an underground water line inside your building is leaking.
Frequently the 1st sign of a water main leak is not a drop in pressure or water gushing up from the ground.
When pipes pass through basement walls underground ground water can leak in around the pipes and through the concrete.
If you do observe a water leak it does not necessarily mean it is your pipe that is leaking.
I noticed water dripping down alongside the main sewer line the big black metal drain that i see in my basement which goes into the ground not sure what the correct name of this pipe is.
Basement water leaking from your sump pit and a drain line not properly maintained can be a source.
When a pipe ruptures and the leaking water has nowhere to go it will bubble up into the street.
This will do two important things.
The stream of water may become apparent through the foundation wall coming up on your property or in the roadway.
Water from a leak making its way into your basement depends on the severity of the leak.
That is when it seeps through the walls or under the floor into your basement.
There is never any fine or cost involved for a nyc dep water main leak investigation.