Residential Water Leak

Signs of a Hidden Water Leak

To help you discover the signs before it’s too late, here are a few signs you may have a hidden water leak.

Water leaks can cause serious problems in your home or business if they go undetected. In fact, they are one of the top reasons Northern Colorado relies on Action Restoration and Property Services. Hidden water leaks cause considerable damage beneath the surface and can cause mold, rust, and wood rot before it’s discovered. Not only can they cause costly damage to your property, but they can also lead to health hazards like mold and mildew growth. Unfortunately, water leaks aren't always easy to spot. Some leaks are slow and subtle, while others can be hidden behind walls or under floors. To help you discover the signs before it’s too late, here are a few signs you may have a hidden water leak.

High Water Bills

One of the most obvious signs of a hidden water leak is a sudden spike in your water bill. If you notice that your water bill is much higher than usual, but you haven't been using noticeably more water, there's a good chance that there is a leak somewhere.

water damage on ceiling

Damaged Walls or Floors

Water leaks can cause damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. If you notice bubbling or peeling paint, discolored patches on your walls or ceiling, or warped or buckled floors, there's a good chance that there is a leak somewhere nearby. Subtle color changes, warping, and even odd smells can point you in the direction of moisture.

Musty Odors

If you notice a musty or moldy smell, there is probably a hidden water leak. Mold thrives in damp environments, so if you have a leak, it is creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Many people can identify the musty smell that mold and mildew give off long before they can visibly detect spores.

low water pressure

Low Water Pressure

Another sign of a hidden water leak is low water pressure. If you notice that your faucets or showerheads aren't working as well as they used to, or if you're having trouble getting enough water to flush your toilet, it could be a sign of a hidden water leak somewhere within the system.

Wet Spots

If you notice wet spots on your walls, ceiling, or floors, it's a sign that there is a leak somewhere nearby. Water can travel a long way before it becomes visible, so if you see water in one spot, there's a good chance that the leak originated somewhere else.

water meter

Water Meter Spinning

If you suspect that you have a hidden water leak, you can check your water meter to see if it's spinning when the water is not running. Turn off all the water and check the meter. If it's still spinning, there's a leak somewhere.

Cracks in the Foundation

If water is leaking into your foundation, it can cause cracks or other damage. If you notice cracks in your foundation, especially if they're getting larger over time, it could be a sign of a hidden water leak.

Water leaks can cause significant damage if they go undetected and untreated. While some leaks are easy to spot, others can be hidden and difficult to detect. If you notice any of the signs we've described here, you should enlist your local trusted plumber to stop the leak, and then call Action Restoration to get the water cleaned up and your house restored. Detecting and repairing leaks early can save you a lot of money and prevent more serious problems like mold growth and structural damage. For all of your water damage recovery needs, connect with Action today!