We’ve all been there—walking past the kitchen sink and hearing a faint drip… drip… drip… Or stepping into the laundry and spotting a suspicious damp patch on the floorboards. At first, it’s easy to ignore. But when it comes to water leaks, the longer you leave them, the worse (and more expensive) they get.
A small leak might not seem like a big deal today, but over time it can cause mould, wood rot, peeling paint, swollen cabinetry, or even structural damage. That’s why early detection—and fast action—is key.
Here’s how to spot water leaks early, what to do about them, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Some leaks are obvious—a puddle under the sink or water dripping from the ceiling will give it away instantly. But many leaks are hidden behind walls or under floors, quietly doing damage without you even knowing. Here’s what to watch for:
Unexplained damp patches on walls, ceilings, or floors
Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
Musty smells—a dead giveaway that mould or mildew is brewing
Mould spots, especially in places that should be dry
A sudden spike in your water bill
Sounds of running water when no taps are on
Low water pressure in your shower or taps
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to investigate further.
If you’re feeling handy, there are a few simple things you can do before calling in a plumber:
One of the easiest ways to confirm a leak is by using your water meter. Turn off all taps and appliances that use water, then check your meter. If it’s still ticking over, you’ve got a leak somewhere in the system.
Have a squiz at pipes under the sink, behind the toilet, and around your hot water system. Look for corrosion, dampness, or water pooling nearby.
Add a few drops of food colouring to your toilet cistern. If the colour seeps into the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a silent leak on your hands.
Some leaks are easy enough to fix on your own—especially if they’re out in the open. A leaky tap might just need a new washer. A loose fitting under the sink could be tightened with a wrench.
Just be mindful: if you're unsure what you're doing, a quick DIY fix can easily turn into a plumbing nightmare. And if you're dealing with hidden leaks inside walls or under floors, it’s best to bring in a licensed tradie who knows how to sort it out safely and properly.
Here’s the golden rule: if you can’t find the source of the leak, or you’re not 100% sure how to fix it—get help. A licensed plumber has the tools (like thermal cameras and moisture sensors) to locate hidden leaks without tearing your house apart. They can also ensure repairs are done to code, preventing future dramas.
Leaks behind walls, under concrete slabs, or in your roof space should always be handled by a professional. The same goes for anything affecting your hot water system or stormwater drainage.
Putting off leak repairs can cost you big in the long run. That trickle under the laundry sink could be soaking into your cabinetry, breeding mould and weakening the timber. A roof leak left untreated can lead to sagging ceilings or even collapse during a heavy storm.
Not to mention the health risks—mould and mildew can trigger asthma and allergies, especially in kids or older family members.
Finding a reliable tradie doesn’t have to be a headache. On ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can post your job for free and get quotes from local plumbers in your area—often within minutes. You’ll be able to compare prices, read reviews from other Aussies, and pick the right person for the job.
Whether you’ve got a leaky pipe, a dodgy showerhead, or a full-blown mystery leak behind the walls, there’s a trusted local plumber ready to help.
Catching a water leak early is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner. It keeps your bills down, your house healthy, and your peace of mind intact. And while there are some fixes you might tackle yourself, it’s worth bringing in a professional when the job is beyond your toolbox.
So if you suspect a leak, don’t wait. Jump on ServiceSeeking.com.au, post your job, and let the pros take care of it—before that drip turns into a disaster.