5 Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak

07 / 28 / 2025

Water leaks aren’t always obvious. In fact, some of the most damaging ones happen out of sight—inside walls, under floors, or beneath your foundation. Catching them early can save you from costly repairs and health hazards like mold. Here are five signs you might have a hidden water leak and why it’s important to call a trusted Plumbing Contractor in the Bay Area.

1. Unexplained Spike in Water Bills
A sudden increase in your water bill is often the first sign of a hidden leak. If your usage habits haven’t changed but the bill keeps climbing, there’s likely a leak somewhere in your system.

2.Musty Odors or Mold Growth
Persistent damp smells or visible mold patches—especially in places that should stay dry, like walls or ceilings—can indicate a leak. Mold thrives in moist environments and spreads quickly, so it’s best to act fast.

3. Stained or Damaged Walls and Ceilings
Water stains, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall can all be signs of a leak behind the surface. These issues often start small but worsen over time, leading to more extensive and expensive damage.

4. Constantly Running Water Meter
If you suspect a leak, try turning off all water fixtures and checking your meter. If it keeps moving even when no water is being used, that’s a strong indication of a hidden leak in your plumbing, which means it’s time to call a trusted Plumbing Contractor in the Bay Area.

5. Low Water Pressure
Sudden drops in water pressure—especially in just one area of the home—could mean a pipe is leaking or partially blocked. Don’t ignore changes in flow, as they often point to deeper plumbing issues.

Catching a leak early helps prevent structural damage and saves water. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to call in the experts.

Need Professional Help?

Peterson Mechanical is a trusted Plumbing Contractor in the Bay Area, offering expert leak detection and repair services. Contact us today for fast, reliable solutions that protect your home and your wallet.

5 Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak

1. Unexplained Spike in Water Bills A sudden increase in your water bill is often the first sign of a hidden leak. If your usage habits haven’t changed but the bill keeps climbing, there’s likely a leak somewhere in your system.

2.Musty Odors or Mold Growth Persistent damp smells or visible mold patches—especially in places that should stay dry, like walls or ceilings—can indicate a leak. Mold thrives in moist environments and spreads quickly, so it’s best to act fast.

3. Stained or Damaged Walls and Ceilings Water stains, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall can all be signs of a leak behind the surface. These issues often start small but worsen over time, leading to more extensive and expensive damage.

5. Low Water Pressure Sudden drops in water pressure—especially in just one area of the home—could mean a pipe is leaking or partially blocked. Don’t ignore changes in flow, as they often point to deeper plumbing issues.

Need Professional Help?

1. Unexplained Spike in Water Bills
A sudden increase in your water bill is often the first sign of a hidden leak. If your usage habits haven’t changed but the bill keeps climbing, there’s likely a leak somewhere in your system.

2.Musty Odors or Mold Growth
Persistent damp smells or visible mold patches—especially in places that should stay dry, like walls or ceilings—can indicate a leak. Mold thrives in moist environments and spreads quickly, so it’s best to act fast.

3. Stained or Damaged Walls and Ceilings
Water stains, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall can all be signs of a leak behind the surface. These issues often start small but worsen over time, leading to more extensive and expensive damage.

5. Low Water Pressure
Sudden drops in water pressure—especially in just one area of the home—could mean a pipe is leaking or partially blocked. Don’t ignore changes in flow, as they often point to deeper plumbing issues.