# Who pays a San Francisco water bill after a leak? | Who Pays the Repair?

> SFPUC may credit 50% of excess usage for visible leaks and 100% for concealed leaks, up to two billing periods, once repairs are proven.

**Who pays:** shared

In San Francisco, you pay for leaks beyond the meter, but SFPUC may credit 50% (visible leaks) or 100% (concealed leaks) of excess usage once repairs are proven.

**Boundary:** SFPUC says customers have sole control of water delivered beyond the meter and are responsible for maintenance and repairs of pipes and fixtures beyond the meter. If granted, the leak allowance adjustment is 50% of excess usage for visible leaks and 100% for concealed leaks, for no more than two billing periods.

**Exceptions:** Reimbursement for repairs made is not included as part of the leak allowance program.

## Sources
- [Leak Allowance](https://www.sfpuc.gov/accounts-services/bill-relief/leak-allowance) — "Customers have sole control of water delivered beyond the Department’s meter and is responsible for maintenance and repairs of pipes and fixtures beyond the meter." (accessed 2026-10-21)
- [Leak Allowance](https://www.sfpuc.gov/accounts-services/bill-relief/leak-allowance) — "The allowance adjustment, if granted, will be for 50% of excess usage for visible leaks and 100% of excess usage for concealed leaks and for no more than two billing periods including that in which the claim was made." (accessed 2026-10-21)
- [Leak Allowance](https://www.sfpuc.gov/accounts-services/bill-relief/leak-allowance) — "Yes, proof of repairs is required. Proof of repair may be in the form of a plumber’s invoice or a purchase receipt of materials." (accessed 2026-10-21)
- [Leak Allowance](https://www.sfpuc.gov/accounts-services/bill-relief/leak-allowance) — "Reimbursement for repairs made are not included as part of the leak allowance program." (accessed 2026-10-21)
- [Frequently Asked Questions on Leaks](https://www.sfpuc.gov/frequently-asked-questions-leaks) — "The SFPUC may provide a credit on high water bills after leaks are fixed." (accessed 2026-10-21)

_Last verified 2026-10-21. Source: Who Pays the Repair? — https://whopaystherepair.com/rules/san-francisco-ca-water-bill-leak-allowance/ — every claim checked against a primary source before publication (see /methodology/)._