What might be a sign of unauthorized water use in distribution systems?

Unexplained reductions in water supply can be a clear indication of unauthorized water use in distribution systems. When water is being siphoned or used without proper authorization—such as through illegal connections or leaks that are not accounted for—it can lead to a noticeable drop in the water available in the system. This discrepancy often manifests as a reduction in the volume of water that is supplied to legal users, as the total amount of water being drawn from the distribution system exceeds the recorded usage.

Monitoring reductions in supply is critical, as it prompts utilities to investigate potential causes, including leaks, theft, or other anomalies within the distribution network. Identifying these reductions allows for prompt actions to mitigate any unauthorized usage and maintain the integrity of the water supply system.

The other options do not correlate directly with unauthorized use: regular billing cycles generally indicate that water is being metered and accounted for, while stable water quality reports would suggest that the water supply system is functioning normally without contamination or other issues. Sudden increases in water pressure, while possibly indicative of system changes, do not specifically point to unauthorized use alone.