Here’s an alarming statistic: according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, an estimated 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted annually due to leaking pipes. The research also indicates that at least 10 percent of homeowners make up the bulk of the waste (over 90 gallons daily).

While unfortunate to note, some pipe leaks can go undetected for a long time until they leave costly havoc on homes and properties. If you suspect a leak in your pipes, Sherlock Leak detection experts can help. Using high-tech electronics, they can quickly determine the leaks’ location without causing any damage to your property.

Just like sewer inspection, pipe leak detection is best left in the hands of experts. While you can’t fix the leaks on your own, there are telltale signs that point that you have a pipe leak that needs to be taken care of. Some of the warning signs include:

Rising water bills

If you have a lawn, your water bill can go up in the summer. You can also attribute the increase in water bill to using the sprinkler every day or filling your pool. However, a massive (and drastic) increase in the water bill can point to something not fun—a leaking pipe.

Keep an eye on your monthly water bill. It can help you spot a potential pipe leak very quickly.

Musty smelling rooms

At times, you can smell a pipe leak before you can see it. 

When there’s a pipe leak that has gone undetected for some time, mold and mildew can develop inside the vents, walls, or under the floor. Keep in mind that it is not normal for rooms to smell musty even if it has not been cleaned for weeks. Water from a leaking pipe can sit in one place and can produce a foul odor.

Stained and damaged walls, floors, and ceilings

Notice any dingy-looking spots in your ceiling? How about stains on your walls, ceilings, and floors? No matter how small the stains, it can suggest that there is something else going behind the surface.

Unfortunately, even if pipe leaks start small, when not fixed right away, they can cause significant damage. At times, it can come in the form of a sagging ceiling that might eventually collapse, requiring extensive water damage cleanup to restore the area.

While the signs can be very subtle at first, you have to be very vigilant when looking for signs, so any leaks can be addressed early before it causes substantial damage.

Other red flags that can indicate a leaking pipe include: