Not all water leaks are dramatic or immediately obvious. While a burst pipe might demand instant attention, other leaks are slow, silent, and surprisingly destructive over time. Left unnoticed, even a small leak can cause structural damage, mould growth, and rising water bills.
That’s why knowing when to bring in water leak detection services is so important.
Below, we’ve outlined the telltale signs that indicate it’s time to call in the experts.
Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
If your water usage habits haven’t changed but your bill has suddenly jumped, it could be a sign of a hidden leak. Many leaks occur behind walls, under floors, or even underground, making them hard to spot. Consistently higher bills without an obvious reason are one of the clearest signs that something is wrong with your plumbing.
Water Stains and Damp Patches
Damp marks on your walls, ceilings, or floors that appear out of nowhere could be the result of a leak. These patches may feel soft or discoloured and could even start to smell if left untreated. Water stains are a sure sign that moisture is seeping in where it shouldn’t, often from pipes leaking within your walls.
Mould and Mildew Growth
Mould thrives in damp environments. If you notice mould growing in places that should be dry—like corners of rooms, behind furniture, or on ceilings—it’s worth investigating further. Even small leaks can provide the moisture needed for mould and mildew to take hold. Aside from causing damage, mould can also be a health hazard, particularly for those with allergies or asthma.
Drop in Water Pressure
Have your taps or showerheads lost their usual force? A sudden or gradual drop in water pressure can indicate a leak in your system. Water escaping from the pipes before reaching its destination will reduce the pressure at your fixtures. While low pressure could also result from other issues like blockages, leaks remain a common culprit.
Sound of Running Water When Nothing’s On
If you can hear the faint sound of running or dripping water when all taps and appliances are turned off, you might be dealing with a hidden leak. This sound often comes from behind walls or beneath floors and is a red flag that water is escaping somewhere in your system.
Cracks in Walls or Flooring
Leaks can weaken the structure of your home. Over time, moisture seeps into the foundations or framework, causing warping, shifting, or cracking. If you start to notice unexpected cracks in your walls or flooring, particularly around the bathroom or kitchen, it could be a warning sign that there’s a leak undermining the structure.
Lush or Damp Patches in the Garden
Leaks don’t just happen indoors. Outdoor plumbing or underground pipes can spring leaks, often revealed by unusually green patches of grass or persistently wet areas in your yard. If part of your garden feels spongy underfoot or stays damp in dry weather, it might be time to have the outdoor pipes checked.
Unpleasant Smells
A musty or damp smell, especially in areas like the bathroom, laundry, or kitchen, can indicate a hidden water leak. Water that sits where it shouldn’t eventually becomes stagnant, leading to bad odours. These smells are often one of the earliest indicators that something is wrong beneath the surface.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
Moisture behind a wall can cause paint or wallpaper to bubble, peel, or warp. If your wall finishes are deteriorating without an obvious cause, it could be due to a slow leak behind the surface. Water weakens the adhesive properties of paint and wallpaper, making it easier to detect a hidden issue.
Water leaks rarely fix themselves, and the longer you wait, the more damage they can do. Recognising the early warning signs can save you money, time, and hassle. If any of the signs above sound familiar, it’s time to call in professional water leak detection services to identify and resolve the issue before it escalates.