- Alexander Rodriguez
How Often Should You Inspect Your Home for Leaks?
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Water leaks aren’t always obvious, and by the time you notice them, they may have already caused serious damage. A slow leak behind a wall or under a sink might seem harmless at first, but over time, it can weaken your home’s structure, cause mold growth, and skyrocket your water bill.
So, how often should you check for leaks? The answer depends on where you’re looking and how much risk your home has for water damage. At ERX (Emergency Restoration Xperts), we’ve seen firsthand how regular leak inspections can save homeowners thousands in repairs. Let’s break it down.
How Often Should You Check for Leaks?
✔ Every Month – Check visible pipes, faucets, toilets, and under sinks.
✔ Every 3-6 Months – Inspect appliances like your dishwasher, water heater, and washing machine.
✔ Every Year – Do a full home water inspection, including the roof, attic, crawl spaces, and foundation.
✔ After Heavy Rain or Freezing Weather – Look for new leaks in your roof, ceilings, basement, and plumbing.
🚨 Pro Tip: If you notice a sudden increase in your water bill, but your usage hasn’t changed, you might have a hidden leak.
Where to Check for Leaks in Your Home
Leaks can happen almost anywhere water flows. Here’s a checklist of the most common areas:
1️⃣ Plumbing & Pipes
✔ Check under sinks for drips or moisture.
✔ Inspect exposed pipes for rust, cracks, or condensation.
✔ Listen for running water sounds when no faucets are on.
🚨 Pro Tip: Place a dry paper towel under pipes overnight—if it’s wet in the morning, you have a leak.
2️⃣ Toilets & Bathrooms
✔ Put a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank—if the water in the bowl changes color after 30 minutes, your toilet is leaking.
✔ Check grout and caulking for signs of water damage or soft spots.
✔ Feel around the base of the toilet for moisture.
🚨 Pro Tip: A leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day—that’s a huge increase on your water bill!
3️⃣ Kitchen & Laundry Room
✔ Look behind the refrigerator—water lines for ice makers often leak.
✔ Check dishwasher hoses and connections for drips.
✔ Inspect the washing machine hoses—replace them if they’re brittle, cracked, or bulging.
🚨 Pro Tip: Most washing machine hoses should be replaced every 3-5 years to prevent leaks and bursts.
4️⃣ Roof & Attic
✔ Look for water stains on ceilings or walls.
✔ Check your attic for damp insulation or mold.
✔ Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles.
🚨 Pro Tip: Leaks in your attic may take weeks or months to show inside your home, so inspect before and after storms.
5️⃣ Basement & Foundation
✔ Look for puddles or damp spots on basement floors.
✔ Check walls for white chalky residue (efflorescence), which means water is seeping through.
✔ Inspect the sump pump to make sure it’s working.
🚨 Pro Tip: If you smell musty odors, water might be seeping into your foundation.
6️⃣ Outdoor Areas
✔ Inspect hoses, spigots, and sprinkler systems for leaks.
✔ Check gutters and downspouts for clogs—overflowing gutters can lead to roof and foundation leaks.
✔ Look for soft, wet spots in your yard—this could be a hidden underground pipe leak.
🚨 Pro Tip: Turn off all water sources and check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you have a hidden leak.
What to Do If You Find a Leak
If you spot any leaks, big or small, don’t ignore them. Here’s what to do next:
✔ Turn off the water supply if it’s a major leak.
✔ Dry the area as much as possible to prevent mold growth.
✔ Seal small leaks with plumber’s tape or epoxy putty (temporary fix).
✔ Call ERX at (866)-217-7903 for professional water damage restoration if you see stains, mold, or structural damage.
🚨 Pro Tip: Even a slow drip can cause thousands in damage over time—fix leaks ASAP.
How to Prevent Future Leaks
✔ Replace old plumbing before pipes burst.
✔ Insulate pipes in winter to prevent freezing.
✔ Keep gutters and downspouts clear so rainwater flows away from your home.
✔ Schedule a professional water inspection annually to catch hidden leaks.
🚨 Pro Tip: Investing in leak detection technology (like smart water sensors) can alert you to leaks before they become major problems.
FAQs About Home Leak Inspections
Q: How do I know if I have a hidden leak?
A: Watch for higher water bills, musty smells, water stains, or damp spots on walls and ceilings. If you suspect a leak, turn off all water sources and check your meter—if it’s moving, you likely have a hidden leak.
Q: How much water can a small leak waste?
A: Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons per year, adding up to higher water bills and costly damage.
Q: Should I fix a small leak myself?
A: Some small leaks (like a dripping faucet) can be DIY fixes. But for leaks behind walls, in ceilings, or underground, call a professional before it turns into major water damage.
Q: How often should I check my home for leaks?
A: Do a quick check every month, inspect appliances every 3-6 months, and get a professional inspection once a year.
Q: What should I do if I find water damage?
A: Dry the area, stop the source of water, and call ERX at (866)-217-7903 for professional water damage restoration. The sooner you act, the less damage you’ll have to deal with.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of Leaks Before They Become Disasters
Leaks start small but can cause serious damage if left unchecked. Regular inspections can save you money, prevent mold, and protect your home’s structure.
📞 Need help with a leak or water damage? Call ERX at (866)-217-7903 today for a professional inspection and fast repairs! 🚨
