How to Spot Hidden Water Leaks in Your Aussie Home Before They Cost You Thousands

Written on the 27 October 2025

Water leaks aren’t just a nuisance in Aussie homes—they’re a silent threat that can cause thousands in damage before you even know they’re there. With water prices on the rise and insurance policies not always covering gradual water damage, it pays—literally—to catch leaks early. Here’s how to spot hidden leaks before they drain your savings.

Why Hidden Water Leaks Are Dangerous

Australia’s tough climate and aging homes mean plumbing often takes a beating. Hidden leaks are especially risky because they happen out of sight—in walls, under slabs, or in ceilings—so damage can build for months. By the time you see stains or start smelling damp, the repair bills may already be sky-high.

Australian insurance claims for water damage often sit between $10,000 and $20,000. If leaks continue unnoticed, homeowners’ risk being left to cover the full cost themselves.

Your Water Bill: Early Warning System

A sudden spike in your water bill is one of the earliest signs. Most households use around 150-300 litres per person per day. If your usage has jumped without an obvious reason—like having visitors or installing a pool—don’t ignore it.

How to check:

• Compare your current bill with previous quarters. A sharp increase (say, 20% or more) means you should investigate.

• Divide your usage by the number of days in the billing period for a daily average. Keep an eye out if it’s consistently over 400 litres per person per day.

• Check for estimated readings—if your next actual reading jumps, you may have a hidden issue.

The Simple Water Meter Test

Your water meter is your best tool for leak detection. Here’s a simple overnight test:

1. Turn off every tap, appliance, and the hot water system.

1. Note your water meter reading before bed.

1. Check it again in the morning—if the number has changed, you’ve got a leak.

To narrow it down, turn off your main supply tap (often near the meter). If the meter stops, the leak is in your house’s pipes; if not, it’s likely on the street side, so call your water supplier.

Look at the small red numbers or dials for signs—if they move with no taps running, even just a bit, that’s a sign.

Visual Signs: What to Watch For

Get in the habit of checking high-risk areas every month. Here’s what to look for:

• Walls and ceilings: Bubbling paint, yellow/brown stains, soft patches, or sagging areas.

• Floors: Warped boards, loose tiles, or spongy carpet, especially around wet areas.

• Outside: Patches of super-green grass or pooling water.

• Hot water unit: Rust stains, mineral build-up, or wet spots—especially near the pressure relief valve.

Listen for Unusual Sounds

Hidden leaks often make themselves known through sound, especially at night when your home is quiet.

• Drips or hissing behind walls.

• Running water noise from pipes when nothing’s on.

• Gurgling from drains (may also be a sign of future backups or leaks).

Try listening with a glass pressed to the wall if you suspect a leak.

Usual Suspects: High-Risk Zones

Stay vigilant in these places:

• Bathrooms: Behind toilets, under vanities, around showers/baths (look for loose tiles or mouldy caulk).

• Kitchen: Under the sink, around the dishwasher and taps.

• Laundry: Check washing machine hoses, taps, and wall connections—replace old hoses every five years.

• Roof and gutters: After heavy rain, inspect for roof leaks and ensure gutters are clear to prevent overflow.

• Air conditioning: Look for pooled water or moisture stains near indoor units or ducted outlets.

Modern Leak Detection Tech

Tech makes leak detection easier for Aussie homes:

• Smart water meters: Offer real-time water usage and alert you to spikes (in rollout across many councils).

• Water leak sensors: Place under sinks, hot water systems, and laundry appliances—they beep or send alerts if they detect moisture.

• Thermal imaging: Some hardware stores hire these cameras which can detect cold, damp spots in walls.

• Moisture meters: Handheld devices available at Bunnings or Mitre 10 for testing suspicious areas.

Consider the Season

Different weather means different risks:

• Hot summers: Increased water use can hide leaks in irrigation or pool plumbing. High temps can loosen pipe joints, so inspect garden hoses and sprinkler systems.

• Winter: In colder regions, pipes might freeze and burst—especially overnight.

• Storms: Watch for new water stains after heavy rain, particularly on ceilings and in roof cavities.

• Drought: Dry soils can shift, damaging underground pipes. Check for unexpected wet patches outside.

When to Bring in a Pro

While you can spot most leaks yourself, call in a licensed plumber immediately if you:

• Suspect a gas hot water system leak.

• Find water near electrical outlets or switchboards (turn off mains power first).

• See major sagging, bulges, or cracks in ceilings or walls.

• Notice sewage smells or backups.

Trying to fix these issues yourself is risky and can endanger your safety.

Don’t Let Leaks Cost You Thousands

Early leak detection is key. Check your bills, inspect your meter, look and listen for warning signs, and keep an eye on high-risk zones in your home. Routine checks take minutes, but they can save you a fortune in repairs and help protect your most valuable asset.

If you suspect a hidden leak or want peace of mind, the expert team at Plumbs Up offers leak detection and repair services across Australia. They use specialised tools to pinpoint and fix problems fast—before they get out of hand.

Ready to safeguard your home and your wallet? Contact Plumbs Up and book a plumbing inspection. Your home—and bank account—will thank you.