A water leak does not always begin with a visible pool. A small pipe leak, an upstairs bathroom, roof entry, air-conditioning drain or external-wall moisture may only appear later as a ceiling stain or blistered paint.
Common warning signs
- New yellow or brown marks on a wall or ceiling
- Blistering, softening or flaking paint and plaster
- A persistent damp smell in a closed room
- Recurring moisture around grout or skirting
- A water meter moving when no water is being used
- An unexplained increase in water consumption
A simple meter check
Turn off taps and water-using appliances, make sure the cistern has finished filling and note the meter. Movement after a period of no use can indicate a leak, although shared supplies, tanks or a faulty cistern can affect the result.
Does every damp mark come from a clean-water pipe?
No. Waste pipes, shower junctions, roofing, external walls, air-conditioning drainage and condensation can create similar marks. Breaking a wall before identifying the source can cause unnecessary cost.
What should you do first?
Close the main valve if there is a major active flow and it is safe to do so. Avoid the area if water may have reached electrical wiring. Photograph changes in the mark and meter, and note what room or fitting is above or beside it.
When should you request service?
An expanding stain, recurring dampness, water reaching another floor or unexplained meter movement should be investigated early to limit damage.
