Did you know water leaks in the home account for almost 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year? According to the EPA, fixing a small leak in your home could save up to ten percent on your water bill, not to mention save countless gallons of wasted water.

Sometimes leaks are apparent. When your basement starts flooding or water begins running down your wall, you know a pipe is leaking.

But what about when the leaks aren’t so obvious? There are many small but easily identifiable signs of a leak inside your home—provided you know what to look for.

Continue reading to learn what those signs are and what you should do if you notice them.

Your Water Bill Is Rising Without Obvious Cause

There are certain times or situations where you can expect your water bill to rise. Many homes see their water bill rise during the summer months when they fill the pool or begin regularly watering their lawn. This is normal and expected.

But what if your water bill has risen noticeably without any obvious cause? Chances are high you have a leak somewhere in your home. A leak will continue dripping water even when everything is off, which will cause your bill to rise.

You Notice Abnormal Mold and Mildew Growth

If you notice occasional mold or mildew growth in your shower or sink, don’t panic. Small amounts of mildew are entirely normal in these areas between cleanings.

However, you should never see mold or mildew growth on your walls, ceiling, floors, or baseboards. No, not even in the kitchen or bathroom.

If you notice abnormal mold or mildew growth, chances are high that you have a leaking pipe. The bad news is that the pipe has typically been leaking for quite some time when mildew or mold starts growing.

You Notice a Musty Smell Without Obvious Origin

Everyone knows the musty smell that comes with something sitting damp for extended periods. Usually, this smell will have an obvious origin like a towel or bathing suit that’s been left on the floor.

If you can’t find the origin of a musty smell in your home, the smell could be coming from inside your walls or ceiling. The musty smell happens when a pipe continues leaking (even if it’s small) and sits. The water can soak into your drywall and cause an unpleasant smell that gets worse as time continues.

There Are Stains or Other Damage

There shouldn’t be water stains or other apparent damage in any part of your home.

This is one of the most obvious signs you have a leak, and it usually means one of two things. It could mean the leak is significant and fast-flowing, or that it’s been going on a long time.

A few types of stains and damage to look for include:

• Stains in walls or ceilings that are rust-colored, brown, or orange-tinted
• Sagging ceilings
• Bubbles or bulges in the walls
• Extra creaky floorboards
• Surfaces appear to be covered in condensation without an obvious cause

If you notice any of these in your home, you have a leak in the pipes near the affected area. The longer you allow the leak to continue, the worse the damage will become.

There Are Wet Sections of Lawn When It Hasn’t Rained

Many people fail to realize leaks can show themselves in your yard and not just around your home.

The pipes running through your home also run out somewhere in your yard. Where these pipes are located varies greatly, but the blueprint of your home likely shows you the exact locations.

If your lawn has wet sections when it hasn’t rained, this is a sign the pipes running into or out of your home are leaking. You may also notice areas of lawn where the grass is growing much faster. The grass in these areas is usually greener and lusher in appearance.

You Hear Running Water When Everything Is Off

When you turn on the faucets in your home or flush your toilet, you’ll hear the sound of running water. This noise comes from water traveling through your home’s pipes, either on their way out or in (depending).

If you hear this noise when you aren’t using the water, this is a red flag you have a leak in your pipes. The sound of running water can be barely noticeable or it can sound like a loud rush. Either way, you need to get it checked out ASAP.

What to Do If You Have a Leak

If you notice any of these tell-tale signs you have a leak in your home, you must contact a professional right away. The longer you allow a leak to continue, the worse the damage will become.

Water damage from leaks can even cause your home to become structurally unsound. What begins as a stain or a small wet spot can cause your walls, ceiling, and floor to weaken. Eventually, leaks can even cause cracks in your home’s foundation that widen over time.

Questions About These Signs of a Leak in Your Home?

There are many ways a leak in your home can present itself. If you notice any of the signs of a leak listed above, be sure to seek professional help immediately. The longer you allow water damage to sit and spread, the worse the problem will become.

Do you have more questions about signs you have a leak in your home? Or do you need professional assistance with a leak in the Orange County area of California?

Contact us today and ask us anything. One of our customer service associates can answer any questions you still have. They can also set you up an appointment if necessary.