Leak Detection in Rex, GA

Who do I call: the water authority or a plumber?

Start with where the water is. Clayton County Water Authority provides water, sewer and stormwater throughout the county, including unincorporated communities like Rex. CCWA's service line runs from the water main to the meter, and the line from the meter to the house belongs to the customer. If water is surfacing in the street or at the meter box, or the sewer is backing up, call CCWA at 770-960-5200, which it lists for after-hours emergencies. If the meter keeps turning while the street side is dry and every fixture is off, the leak is on your property and a plumber is the right call.

What kinds of leaks show up in Rex homes?

Rex grew around the historic mill and village, but most of today's housing is newer. The median home was built in 1995, and about 20% predate 1980. In 1990s homes, leaks typically start at water heater connectors, supply hoses, shower valves and the fittings where branches tie together. Older homes near Rex Village are more likely to have worn valves and long service lines. Slab foundations are common, and a hot water line leaking under concrete often shows up as a warm spot on the floor or a water heater that runs when no one is using hot water.

Does a repair need a permit, and from whom?

Since Rex is unincorporated, permits come from Clayton County Community Development, whose building permit section issues plumbing permits for repairs and remodels from its office in Jonesboro. Replacing a service line or rerouting pipe will usually need one; a small fixture fix may not. The plumber can confirm.

A local note

CCWA tests backflow devices at customer connections itself every year, so homeowners do not need to hire their own tester. It also offers a lead and copper inventory portal where you can look up your property. Before the plumber arrives, take two meter readings an hour apart with nothing running, turn off any irrigation, and make sure the main shutoff turns. Look under each sink, behind the refrigerator and around the water heater too, since a loose connection there can save a longer search. When you call, you'll be connected with an independent plumber who works in Rex and the surrounding part of Clayton County.