Required 2026 Water Loss Audits

As we head into the new year, it’s time to once again start thinking about water loss audits. Water utilities will once again be required to submit validated water loss audits in 2026. Here are some common questions and answers on water loss audits to help get you started:

  • When are validated water loss audits due to the Indiana Finance Authority (IFA)? August 1, 2026
  • Is there new water loss audit software? The AWWA Water Loss Audit version 6.0 is the software preferred by the IFA. This is the version that was released in 2020. IFA will also accept water loss audits using software version 6.1, which was released in 2025.
  • Who can perform validations? Water loss audit validations can only be performed by certified validators. Individuals can become certified validators by attending training and passing the Indiana Water Loss Audit Validator exam. Commonwealth has several certified validators on staff, and a list of certified validators is also available on IFA’s website.
  • What is the difference between an audit and a validation? The first step in the water loss audit process is completing the audit itself. The auditor does not need to have any special training or certifications (but attending training is a good idea to gain a thorough understanding). The validation must be performed by a certified validator. The validation is a process of reviewing and validating the auditor’s inputs and supporting documentation to verify that the audit is complete and correct. The validator also provides a certificate of validation, which must be submitted to IFA along with the validated audit.
  • What dates will the water loss audit cover? The water loss audit should cover January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025.
  • Where can I find more information about water loss audits? Additional information and resources can be found at IFA’s Water Loss Audit webpage, linked here: https://www.in.gov/ifa/water-loss-audits/

If you would like assistance with your audit or validation, contact Commonwealth Engineers.