How to Spot Water Pipe Damage

Water pipes are a crucial part of a home, and any damage can lead to a host of long-term issues and costly repairs. Having an idea of how to look for damage can be incredibly beneficial, especially if you’re able to regularly carry out checks to ensure that everything is working as it should. 

Spotting water pipe damage can help you spot leaks, damage, and other issues before leading to larger issues within the house. We’ll break down some of the most obvious ways to identify water pipe damage as part of your regular home inspection.

Unpleasant odor

The most obvious sign of damage to water pipes tends to be something you smell first, rather than seeing. If there are leaks and issues with water pipes, it means that you’re more likely to smell dirty water and sewage as it builds up. 

This means that the water is not going to public sewer lines and is instead pooling or collecting together somewhere. An unpleasant odor will likely be one of the first signs that pipes are backed up or blocked by something, so it’s crucial to check out the source of the odor as soon as possible. 

Unexplained puddles

If you see water pooling in random areas in your house, either outdoor or indoor, it could be a signal that pipes are damaged and are leaking. Water that accumulates in the yard, such as in patches of grass, almost like sinkholes, is a sign of a potential water leak outdoors. If you see puddles around your sink or toilet in the home, that could signal a leak indoors. 

The first step is to identify the exact area where the leak occurs, or at least where there seems to be a higher concentration of water. Once you find the spot, you can call an experienced plumber to professionally inspect pipes and repair any leaks before they increase. Remember that water leaks can be more difficult to spot in ceilings and walls, so if you can’t find the source of the leak, it might be worth paying extra attention to those areas.

Strangely high water bills

Lastly, take a look at your water bills in more detail. Unexpected spikes can often indicate leaks or damage to pipes, especially if it randomly occurs. Keep an eye on past water bills as well so that you can understand your baseline and identify spikes based on past history. Check with your utility company as well if you notice an increase, that way, you can rule out something on their end. 

Your water bill will likely climb up if there are leaks. If you’re also spotting puddles and damp surfaces, then it’s incredibly important to get your water pipes inspected by a professional as soon as possible. 

Water pipe damage can lead to significant issues for your home if not corrected immediately, so monitoring for damage should be part of your regular home inspection and maintenance routine. If caught early enough, the repairs will likely be more cost-friendly and faster and keep your home safe and sound. To learn more about how to spot issues with water pipes and the importance of home inspection, please get in touch with us.