What Are the Signs of an Underground Water Leak?

Have you noticed mysterious wet spots appearing on your property?

I’ve encountered plenty of homeowners who had no idea they were dealing with an underground water leak until significant damage had already occurred. These hidden leaks can silently drain your wallet and cause damage long before you realise what's happening. So, how can you spot these leaks before things get serious?

Unexplained Increase in Your Water Bill

One of the earliest and clearest indicators is a sudden jump in your water bill. If your water usage hasn't changed but your bills have gone through the roof, it's time to suspect a hidden leak. Regularly reviewing your monthly water usage is a simple habit that can quickly highlight issues.

Strange Wet Spots or Puddles on Your Property

Ever noticed random damp spots or puddles in your yard, even when it hasn't rained for days? Underground leaks can create unusual wet areas that never seem to dry completely. These patches are a strong indication of water escaping underground pipes and surfacing over time.

Areas of Lush, Unusually Green Grass

This might sound odd, but patches of extremely lush grass can actually signal an underground leak. The extra moisture from leaking pipes can fertilise your lawn in isolated areas, causing grass to grow greener and quicker than the rest of your yard.

Reduced Water Pressure in Your Home

Another clear indicator is a noticeable drop in water pressure. If your taps or shower suddenly seem weaker than usual, an underground leak might be diverting water away from your home. Checking this out sooner rather than later can help avoid more significant plumbing problems down the track.

Sound of Running Water When Everything is Off

Have you ever heard running water even when all taps are off? If you notice a faint sound of running water in your home, particularly near walls or floors, an underground pipe could be leaking. Don't dismiss this; the noise typically indicates water flowing freely somewhere it shouldn't.

Cracks and Sinkholes in Your Yard

Underground leaks can severely erode soil, leading to the formation of cracks or even sinkholes in your yard. These signs are serious, showing advanced leakage that requires immediate attention. If you spot these issues, it's critical to get professional help quickly.

How to Confirm Your Suspicion

If you're experiencing any of these signs, one reliable way to confirm a leak is through your water meter test. Turn off all your water fixtures, note your meter reading, and wait for half an hour. If the meter reading changes, there’s likely a hidden leak.

Professional Leak Detection Services

While these checks are helpful, underground leaks often need professional equipment for precise detection. At Mr Blockage, we utilise specialised leak detection technology to pinpoint exactly where the problem lies, saving you both time and costly repairs.

To learn more about how we can help with leak detection or to book a detailed inspection, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. It's always better to catch these leaks early rather than dealing with the aftermath.

Preventing Underground Water Leaks

Regular inspections can help you spot issues before they escalate. Especially if you're buying a new property, consider organising a thorough pre-purchase inspection to identify potential underground leaks or plumbing issues ahead of time.

Taking proactive steps today can save you from hefty repairs tomorrow. Remember, when dealing with underground water leaks, quick action makes all the difference.