One of the most common plumbing problems in any home is a plumbing leak. This could be a tap that leaks even when it’s closed, or it could be a leak from a hot water heater. In theory, any part of your plumbing system could start leaking at some point, and many of those leaks can be fixed as a DIY project if you are reasonably handy.

Here are a few things you should know if you’re hunting for a leak in your home.

How to detect a water leak in your home

The most obvious signs of a leak are visible and audible. A leaking tap, or a puddle of water under the wash basin in the bathroom are sure-fire signs you have a leak. However, there are some more subtle signs that you might have a plumbing leak.

Check water meter

One of the best ways to confirm that you have a water leak in your home is to use your water meter. Shut off the water at the mains, and then take a reading at the meter. Wait ten minutes or so and look at the meter again. If the numbers have gone off with the water shut off, you have a leak.

Outdoor/underground leak symptoms

Outdoor leaks might be from outdoor taps and fittings, but more often, they’re under the ground, in the pipes that feed your home.

Look for signs of changes to the soil and grass in your garden. If there’s a patch of bright green grass when everything else is less lush, that’s usually a sign of an underground leak. Likewise, if water has leaked for a while, you might notice softer, muddier patches, or you’re paving, or concrete slabs might start to sag.

Interior leak symptoms

Inside your home the most obvious signs of a leak are the sound of dripping or wet patches, but there are also other signs like mould or mildew growth, water damage to walls or ceilings and bubbling paint that might indicate there’s a hidden leak.

When it’s time to call a plumber

If you can see and reach a leak, and if there are no damaged or cracked pipes or other serious repairs to be done, you might be able to do it yourself. However, as soon as you can’t access a leak, or when you think you might need to replace pipes or do other major work, it’s time to call a professional.

How a plumber can detect leaks

Plumbers use special equipment that use sound detection of leaks or even cameras to find leaks that can’t be seen just by walking around your home. They are also trained to look for signs of water leaks that you might not notice.

Hire a Professional

Unless your plumbing leak is very simple and easy to fix, you’ll need a licensed plumber to help find and repair your plumbing leaks. Trying to do this kind of repair without the right tools and training can do more harm than good, and there’s a good chance you’ll have to call a plumber to fix the problem anyway.