- Water damage can get worse quickly, so catching leaks early can help limit damage.
- Common signs include musty smells, stains, warped floors, peeling walls, odd sounds and higher water bills.
- Hidden leaks often show up in basements, behind walls or around plumbing and appliances.
- If you suspect a leak, check it quickly and call a professional if needed.
6 Telltale Signs of a Water Leak
Home water damage can become more serious the longer it goes undetected. Knowing the signs of plumbing problems – such as puddling, odors, stains, water leaking from a water heater, and more – can help you stay ahead of costly issues.
Key Takeaways
What is water damage?
To start off, it’s important to know what water damage is. When talking about water damage in a homeowners insurance policy, it refers to the accidental discharge or leakage of water or steam as the direct result of the breaking or cracking of any part of a plumbing system or appliance. For the purpose of this article, we’ll specifically be talking about this type of water damage, not damage resulting from ground or floodwater entering your home from the exterior.
Water damage happens quickly, so it’s important to act fast. If left unaddressed, excess moisture can become destructive within 24 hours. Mold and mildew can begin growing 24-48 hours after a water leak forms.
Is water damage dangerous?
Untreated water leaks can not only be harmful to your home but also to those who live in it. Water damage can also attract another issue: pests. Cockroaches, silverfish, carpenter ants and beetles prefer moist environments and may be drawn to your home.¹ Additionally, the growth of mold and fungi can lead to health problems if left untreated. The risk of electric shock is also higher when water is present.¹ Water-damaged wiring can be very dangerous and should be handled by a professional.
Quick takeaway: If you notice musty smells, stains, warped materials or unexplained moisture, try to locate the source quickly and call a professional if the cause isn’t obvious.
Common signs of a water leak
Now that you know the importance of preventing or stopping water damage, you may be wondering how to spot it before it’s too late. Here are six signs of a water leak and tips for water leak repair.
| Warning sign | What it may mean | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Musty odor | Moisture may be trapped behind walls, under floors or in a basement. | Basement corners, under sinks and poorly ventilated rooms |
| Ceiling stains | Water may be leaking from plumbing above or from the roof. | Bathrooms, attic spaces and upper-floor plumbing |
| Warped floors | Materials may be absorbing water over time. | Baseboards, subflooring, areas near tubs or appliances |
| Peeling walls | The walls may be saturated with water. | Paint or wallpaper for any changes in condition |
| Unusual sounds | Some issues are not visible right away. | Pipes inside the walls or cabinets for new sounds, like dripping or sloshing water |
| Higher bills | A hidden leak may be running even when you don’t see visible damage. | The water meter and monthly usage patterns |
1. A musty odor
A smell similar to that of wet paper can be the first sign of a water leak, especially when coupled with a humid feeling in the room. A water leak in the basement, for example, can produce excess moisture and cause mold and mildew growth.
2. Ceiling discoloration
The ceiling is one of the easiest places to spot a problem in your home. “We see that a lot when a pipe freezes, or a second-floor toilet overflows, or there’s water leaking from a water heater in the attic, and we’re dealing with multiple floors and multiple areas of damage,” notes an Amica claims examiner. If you see any discoloration, or brown or yellow stains – particularly if they seem to be getting larger each time you look – check the space above the ceiling or the roof to see if you can find the source.
3. Misshapen floors
If there is water damage to your floors, you may be able to feel it before you see it, as moisture permeating the floorboards and subflooring causes noticeable differences. These changes may include warping, buckling, bulging, sagging, soft and spongy spots, and sinking.
4. Peeling on the walls
Like the floor, damaged walls may begin to flex or warp when they are saturated with water, but you’ll also be able to notice a change in the paint or wallpaper. If your walls are painted, the paint may begin to peel or blister. If you have wallpaper, it may start to separate from the wall as the adhesive disintegrates. Cosmetically fixing your walls should be straightforward, but these quick remedies could indicate you’ll need more significant restorations. “If it’s a minor water leak, you can sometimes repair and then repaint,” says an Amica claims examiner. “But for extensive water damage, you’re looking at sometimes a full gut of the room, removing all walls, ceilings, trim, and replacing everything up to the framing.”
5. Unusual sounds
If you’ve lived in your home for a while, you’re probably used to the regular noises it makes. However, if you hear new sounds, like dripping or sloshing water in the walls or cabinets, try to locate the source to see if there is any visible moisture. Then, call a professional plumber to come check it out. Some water leak issues aren’t visible right away.
6. Changes in your water bill
One of the strongest signs of water damage can be a change in your monthly utility bill. An unusually high bill can indicate a leak if your household’s daily water usage has not changed.
How to find a water leak
All houses have a main water shutoff valve. Make sure you know where your home’s is in case of emergency or routine maintenance. Cracks or leaks around the water main could signify a plumbing issue.
Notice water leaking from water heater equipment? Shut off power to the unit if it’s safe to do so and contact a plumber. You may also want to look for signs that a unit may be nearing the end of its life.
After searching your home, if you don’t see any of the water damage signs mentioned above, you can test for a leak by checking your water meter. First, turn off the water to your home and note the number you see on the meter. Twenty minutes later, if the number on the meter has changed, you’ll know there is a leak in your system.² This can also help you find a water leak underground or in a pool. An unexplained meter change after shutting off fixtures may point to a hidden plumbing issue that needs professional help.
You may also be able to stop problems before they begin by starting with routine maintenance and early detection tools. You may even discover potential discounts as well.
What to do if you find a water leak
If you find a plumbing leak, stop the water at the source or use your main shut-off valve if you can do so safely. Move nearby belongings out of the way, avoid standing water if electricity may be involved and contact a plumber or cleanup professional for help. If there is visible damage, take photos and review your policy or contact your insurer to understand what may be covered.
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FAQs about water leaks
Start by looking for stains, musty odors, warped materials, dripping sounds and changes in your water bill. You can also turn off the water in your home and check whether the water meter changes after about 20 minutes.
If you shut off water inside the home and your meter still changes, it may suggest a hidden or underground leak. Because underground plumbing can be hard to inspect safely, it’s usually best to contact a licensed plumber.
Water leaking from a water heater can mean anything from a loose connection to a more serious tank problem. A plumber can help determine whether the issue can be repaired or if the unit may need replacement.
Common signs can include water loss beyond normal evaporation, soggy areas around the pool or air in the pump system. A pool professional can help confirm the source.
Homeowners insurance typically covers water damage from a leak if it's sudden and accidental, like a burst pipe or an appliance that suddenly fails. However, it usually does not cover damage from ground or flood water, gradual leaks that happen over time due to wear and tear, poor maintenance or neglected repairs. The cost to fix the leaking pipe or appliance itself is also typically not covered, only the resulting water damage to your home and belongings.
5 Major Risks of Untreated Water Damage, Titan Restoration Construction, 2021.
How to Read Your Water Meter, Smart Home Water Guide, 2022.
Your Policy, Policy Declarations or Amended Declarations in effect on the date of loss is the primary source of reference for your coverage, coverage limits and deductible amounts.
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