How To Detect a Leak on Your Property

Updated: May 8

From washing our clothes to providing our bodies with the nourishment it needs to function, there are no limits to the value water adds to our daily lives. However, it can quickly become the enemy if it has the opportunity to go where it shouldn’t.

Water leaks are a common problem that can cause immense damage to your property’s structure or furnishings. It's an expensive plumbing ordeal that can be avoided if you know what to keep an eye out for.

Here are a few signs you may have a water leak on your property:

Unusually high water bill

Monthly water bills are fairly consistent. If you haven’t been using more water than usual and you receive a bill that’s higher than normal, the conclusion is cut and dry - you may have a water leak. According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average household uses around 349 litres of water each day, depending on the season. However, a typical leak can waste up to three litres of water a day, which could spike your water usage and bill.

Check for Green Grass

Unfortunately, the grass isn’t always greener, especially when you have a leak on your property. If you notice that a particular area of your lawn is much greener than the rest of your grass, it may be a sign that your buried water pipe is leaking. If the leak is massive, you may even notice puddles in your garden. While having patchy grass and puddles in your backyard doesn’t always imply you have a leaky pipe, it’s worth calling the experts to help figure it out.

Water Pressure Test

The water pressure test is a simple way to determine whether you have a leak or not. Turn off all the faucets and measure the water pressure by turning on the shower or opening a tap. If the pressure is lower than usual, you could have a hidden leak.

Wet Walls

Having wet walls in your home can be an obvious sign you have a water leak, which can cause problems of its own. Other visible signs include water-stained trims, musty smells, mould or mildew, or discoloured drywalls. It’s best to call the professionals to determine where the leak is coming from, as leaving it untreated can cause extensive damage.

A Few Common Culprits

If you suspect you have a leaking pipe in your home, but you’re struggling to determine the source, here are a few common culprits that could help you narrow down the search:

Appliances: Whether it’s a washing machine or dishwasher, appliances we use regularly can result in loose and leaky valves. Check your attachments often to ensure everything is secure.
Toilets: There’s not a day we do not use our toilets. This can cause wear and tear that will eventually lead to leaks. A nifty trick to determine whether your toilet is leaking is to use a dry piece of toilet paper at the back of your toilet bowl or add food colouring before flushing.
Geyser: A leaking geyser can cause major damage if left untreated. If you have low water pressure, no warm water or you can hear noises coming from your system, ensure you call a plumbing expert as soon as possible.
Showerheads: Similar to toilets, daily use can cause faucets to wear down. Low water pressure is an obvious sign it’s time to look closer at your plumbing system.

Call The Experts

If you’ve followed all the “signs” and have now concluded that your property may have a hidden leak, it’s time to call the professionals. Clearpath Drainage provides quality drainage services and emergency plumbing for those moments you’re in a tough spot.