Have you ever found yourself in a perplexing predicament, wondering what actions to take when you suspect that your water meter is not functioning properly? If a meter displays various discrepancies or fails to turn off completely, what could possibly be the right course of action? Is it advisable to attempt a do-it-yourself diagnostic, or should one immediately consult a professional plumber equipped with specialized expertise and tools? Furthermore, could ignoring a faulty meter lead to a cascade of issues, potentially inflating your water bill or causing property damage? If so, what steps can be taken to mitigate such risks? Should you contact your water utility provider to report the issue, or is it necessary to have a comprehensive inspection performed? Moreover, what preventive measures can be adopted to ensure consistent functionality of your water meter in the future? What insights might be gleaned from other homeowners who faced similar challenges?