Kellyville is a growing suburb in Sydney's north-west, near Rouse Hill, Bella Vista, Beaumont Hills and Castle Hill. Much of it is made up of newer estates, with recently built houses and townhouses, alongside areas that were rural not long ago and still have larger lots.
New homes, different risks
Modern pipework is generally plastic or copper and in good condition, so the issues tend to be different from those in older suburbs. Many new homes are built on concrete slabs, so pipes that run beneath them can leak quietly for a long time before anything shows. A water meter that keeps moving when every tap is off is the most reliable early sign. If a home is recently built, check what your building contract provides for defects and by when, because early problems usually point back to installation.
- Test for hidden leaks by watching the meter with every tap and appliance off.
- Keep builder documents, plans and any compliance paperwork in one place.
- Learn where the house isolation valve and each room's supply are located.
Not far away
The Hills district around Castle Hill has older homes that provide a useful contrast: see the Castle Hill guide. Parramatta, further south-east, represents a different urban pattern in the Parramatta guide.
Keep reading
Browse the North West region. Hidden leaks are covered in burst pipes, and urgent situations in the emergency guide.