The government will pay to repair leaks in water pipes found during the meter installation process, ahead of water charges coming into force in 2015.

It had been expected that homeowners would have to pay for repairs out of their own pocket.

But according to the Irish Independent, the government is developing a 'first leak' policy.

It will cover repairs that are identified by engineers in the process of installing water meters and that will apply to damage between the front door and the footpath, but not issues that arise within a property.

It's estimated the scheme will cost the State up to €60-million.