Hidden plumbing leaks can have devastating consequences for your home. Since they often occur behind walls or under floors, they can go unnoticed for weeks—or even months—until real damage is done. But how can you tell if you have a leak?
At Davis Plumbing & Drain, we help homeowners across South Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia area catch and fix leaks before they cause serious damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find a water leak in your walls by looking for common signs of leaking pipes, what causes leaks, how to confirm a pipe leak, and what to do next.
Common Signs of a Pipe Leak Behind the Walls
Pipe leaks are often hidden under sink cabinets and floorboards. To catch a leak, look for the following signs that something isn’t right:
1. Unexplained Increase in Water Bills
If your water bill suddenly spikes but your usage hasn’t changed, you might have a leak. Even a slow drip can waste gallons of water per day. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that a faucet dripping at a rate of one drip per second would waste 3,000 gallons of water per year.
2. Musty Odors or Mold Growth
Water trapped behind walls creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. If you notice musty smells or see mold patches near baseboards or on drywall, a hidden leak could be to blame.
3. Discolored or Bubbling Walls and Ceilings
A pipe leak may leave visual evidence as well. Look for brown or yellow stains and warped or bubbling paint on your walls or ceiling. These are strong indicators that water may be leaking behind the surface and causing damage.
4. Warped or Damaged Flooring
Leaks that occur behind walls can also seep into floors. If your hardwood is buckling or laminate is curling, there’s likely moisture damage below.
5. Sounds of Running Water When Nothing Is On
Do you hear water running even when you’re not running water from the tap or using any appliances? There’s a good chance a leaking water pipe is causing the noise.
Causes of Hidden Plumbing Leaks
Understanding what causes these leaks can help you prevent them in the future. Here are some of the most common reasons why pipes start leaking:
- Corrosion and aging pipes: Pipes in older homes are likely to be made of metals like galvanized steel and polybutylene, which can develop rust or corrosion. These weakened pipes are more prone to leaks.
- High water pressure or pipe damage: Excessive water pressure can strain pipes and joints. Similarly, if you accidentally puncture your pipes with nails or screws during home renovations, it can lead to undetected leaks.
- Poor plumbing installation: Incorrectly installed pipes or poorly sealed joints can fail over time, leading to leaks hidden within your walls.
- Clogs and blockages: When a pipe is clogged, pressure can build up behind the blockage and cause the pipe to crack or split. This is another common cause of pipe leaks in residential plumbing systems. For a severe clog, we recommend getting a professional drain cleaning service to safely eliminate it.
How To Confirm a Hidden Pipe Leak
If you see signs of a leak but aren’t sure where it’s coming from, bring in a professional. At Davis Plumbing & Drain, we use non-invasive sewer inspection cameras and advanced plumbing leak detection tools to pinpoint the source without tearing up your walls.
To confirm that you have a pipe leak, plan for a two-hour window without using water. Check your water meter before and after the time frame. If your usage goes up, you probably have a leak. Another way to test for leaks is to use a moisture meter to detect dampness in the walls or floors. You can pick up a relatively inexpensive moisture meter at your local home improvement store.
Why Prompt Leak Detection & Repair Is Important
The sooner a leak is identified and addressed, the less damage it can cause to your home and your wallet. Catching a leak early can prevent unnecessary repairs, preserve your property’s structure, and protect your family’s health.
Delaying repairs on a hidden leak can lead to:
- Costly water damage from pipes
- Dangerous mold growth
- Structural damage to your home
- Increased plumbing repair costs
The longer you wait, the more damage the leak can cause. Don’t risk it—get it checked early by an expert leak repair technician in Camden County and the surrounding areas.
How Davis Plumbing Can Help
Once you confirm you have a leak, you’ll likely need professional help to mitigate the issue. Davis Plumbing & Drain offers reliable long-term solutions through pipe relining and repiping. We serve homeowners across South Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia area, including Burlington, Camden, and Cherry Hill.
Pipe relining is a trenchless repair method that allows us to restore damaged pipes without digging up your yard or floors. We insert a durable epoxy liner into the existing pipe, sealing cracks and preventing future leaks—all with minimal disruption to your home.
For older or severely corroded plumbing systems, repiping may be the best option. We replace outdated or damaged pipes with high-quality materials to improve water pressure, flow, and long-term reliability. Whether it’s a partial upgrade or a full home repiping, our team ensures a safe, code-compliant installation.
If you’re dealing with recurring leaks or suspect hidden damage, contact Davis Plumbing & Drain to schedule an inspection and learn which solution is right for your home.
Contact Davis Plumbing If You Suspect a Hidden Leak
Hidden leaks don’t have to turn into major headaches. By spotting the warning signs early and calling in the pros, you can protect your home from water damage from pipes and costly repairs. If you live in Camden, Cherry Hill, Burlington, or Philadelphia, Davis Plumbing & Drain is your local expert for fast, affordable, and non-invasive leak detection.
Contact us today for expert plumbing repair in Camden County and the Greater Philadelphia area.
FAQs
How do I know if I have a hidden pipe leak?
To know if you have a hidden pipe leak, look for mold and mildew stains, warping paint, or high water bills. If you notice any of these signs of leaking pipes, call a professional plumber to investigate further.
Can a small leak cause serious damage?
Yes, a small leak in your pipes can cause serious damage. Even a slow, gradual leak can lead to mold and structural damage. The longer it goes undetected, the more significant the damage will be.
How does a plumber detect hidden leaks?
To detect hidden leaks, a plumber uses specialized tools like moisture sensors, acoustic leak detectors, and video cameras, such as those used for a sewer inspection, to locate leaks behind walls without damaging your home.
Should I turn off my water if I suspect a leak?
If you suspect a leak, turning off the water can prevent further damage. While turning off your home’s main water valve will work, it may not be practical if you need to wait for a plumber. If you can identify where the leak is coming from, such as a toilet or sink, you can turn off the water at the source instead.
