well since anyone can read the water meter, it is easy to see whether the meter used in the bill is accurate or not right? if meter reading is same as in the bill, that means the bill is accurate and water leakage might be the issue. if reading is not same as what is stated in the bill, that means the bill is based on estimate and charge correctly. and the beginning meter reading can be used to determine that water amount cover how many months of usage. just check previous bill to see if they tie.