Suspect you might have a water leak but not sure where to start? Water leaks can be silent, hidden, and expensive if left unchecked. The good news is there are practical steps you can take to identify early warning signs before serious damage occurs.
This guide walks you through how to check for a water leak properly, what signs to look for, and when it’s time to call a licensed plumber.
One of the simplest and most reliable ways to check for a hidden water leak is by testing your water meter. Here’s how:
If the reading has changed, water is flowing somewhere in your system, which usually indicates a leak.
Some meters also have a small leak indicator dial that spins even with very small water movement. If this dial is turning while all water is off, there is likely a leak.
This method is especially useful for detecting underground or slab leaks that aren’t immediately visible.
Not all leaks are hidden underground. Many start inside walls, ceilings, or under cabinetry.
Common internal signs include:
Bathrooms and kitchens are common problem areas. Check under sinks, around toilets, behind washing machines, and near hot water systems. Even a slow drip can cause long-term structural damage.
If you notice water pooling under cabinets or around fixtures, don’t ignore it. Small leaks can quickly become larger pipe failures.
Leaking taps and running toilets are some of the most common causes of high water bills.
To check your taps:
To check your toilet:
These types of leaks may seem minor, but they can waste thousands of litres of water over time.
Leaks aren’t always inside the house. External plumbing systems can also fail.
Signs of outdoor leaks include:
If you suspect an underground pipe leak, especially between the meter and your house, professional leak detection is usually required. These leaks often show no visible surface damage until the issue becomes severe.
An unexplained increase in your water bill is often the first warning sign of a hidden leak.
Compare your current bill to previous periods. If your usage has increased but your household habits haven’t changed, it’s worth investigating further.
Seasonal irrigation changes can affect bills, but steady and unexplained increases often indicate underground or concealed leaks.
Low water pressure can sometimes signal a pipe leak, particularly if it occurs suddenly.
If multiple fixtures in the house experience reduced pressure at the same time, there may be a main line issue. If only one tap or shower is affected, the problem may be localised.
Pressure issues can also relate to blockages or valve problems, so diagnosis is important before jumping to conclusions.
Sometimes you can hear a leak before you see it.
Try this:
While not always obvious, persistent noise when no water is being used may indicate pipe movement or leakage.
Slab leaks occur beneath concrete foundations and can be harder to detect.
Possible signs include:
Slab leaks require specialised detection equipment. Attempting to guess the location can result in unnecessary cutting or excavation.
If your meter test confirms a leak but you can’t locate it, or if you notice structural warning signs, it’s time to involve a licensed local plumber.
Professional leak detection tools allow plumbers to pinpoint the exact location of hidden leaks without unnecessary damage to walls, floors, or landscaping.
Acting early reduces repair costs and prevents secondary damage such as mould, timber rot, or electrical risks.
Even small leaks can waste thousands of litres of water annually. Beyond higher bills, ongoing leaks can:
The earlier a leak is identified, the simpler and more affordable the repair usually is.
Checking for a water leak doesn’t always require specialist tools. A simple water meter test, visual inspection, and awareness of warning signs can help you identify problems early.
However, if the source isn’t obvious or signs point to a hidden leak, professional detection is the safest way forward. Avoid guesswork that could lead to unnecessary property damage.
If you suspect a water leak and want clear answers, contacting a licensed plumbing professional ensures the issue is located accurately and resolved properly.
