Government 'to pay for leaks caused by water meter installs'

The Government will pay to repair leaks in water pipes found during the meter installation process, it has been reported.

With water charges coming into force in 2015, it had been expected that homeowners would have to pay for repairs out of their own pocket.

According to the Irish Independent, the Government is developing a 'first leak' policy.

This would cover repairs that are identified by engineers in the process of installing water meters and will apply to damage between the front door and the footpath, but not internal issues.

It is estimated the scheme will cost the state up to €60m.