11 Signs of Plumbing Leaks to Watch Out For

Plumbing leaks can sneak up on you, causing significant damage and posing serious health risks if not addressed promptly. In some cases, water leaks in households result in drastic water loss, a critical issue during droughts and particularly hot summers. In fact, it’s estimated that about 45 per cent of the region's water supply is lost to unaddressed leaks. Meanwhile, gas leaks are known to have caused explosions along with many other health and safety hazards.

So whether it's a gas or water leak, recognising the early signs can save you a lot of trouble down the line. For residents of New Zealand, staying vigilant is key. Here are 12 signs of gas and water leaks that you should keep an eye out for.

Signs of Gas Leaks

Recognising the signs of a gas leak is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home and family. Here are the primary indicators you need to be aware of:

1. Rotten Egg Odour

Ever noticed a smell reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulphur? This could be a sign of a gas leak from a gas fitting error or corrosion. Natural gas itself is odourless, but suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinct smell for safety reasons. If you catch a whiff of this unpleasant scent, it’s crucial to act quickly. 

First, you need to ventilate the area and get your family out of the house. If you can shut off the gas valve from outside your home, do so. Then, call professional plumbers near you to fix the leak. If you live in Dunedin, you can contact plumbers Dunedin residents can trust. 

Meanwhile, you can prevent leaky pipes by hiring licensed gas fitters like Mains Plumbers from the get-go. With our professional plumbing expertise, we can make sure you have top-of-the-line plumbing materials that can withstand intense pressure and the daily wear and tear.

2. Hissing or Whistling Sounds

Gas leaks can sometimes be detected audibly. If you hear a hissing or whistling sound near your gas appliances or pipelines, it could indicate a leak. This sound often means gas is escaping from a small opening and could create a potentially dangerous situation. Evacuate and shut off the gas valve promptly before calling an emergency plumber to find and fix the leak.

3. Visible Damage

Regularly inspecting your gas lines for visible damage is essential for proper maintenance and safety. Look for signs of corrosion, wear, or any other form of deterioration. Damaged pipes or connections can easily lead to leaks, posing a serious hazard to you and your property.

It’s also a good prevention tip to have your plumber do a yearly maintenance check to get ahead of potential leaks or any other plumbing issues.

4. Dead Vegetation and Bubbles in Water



If you notice patches of dead or dying vegetation in your yard, especially near where gas lines are buried, this could be a red flag. Escaping gas can prevent plant roots from getting the oxygen they need, which leads to brown or dead spots in your garden. Another tell-tale sign of a gas leak is bubbles forming in puddles or other moist areas in your yard. This occurs because the escaping gas is displacing the water, creating visible bubbles at the surface.

Once you spot these phenomena, call your plumber to check your gas lines. They have a special pipe locator that uses electromagnetic fields to identify where your underground pipes are situated, along with other professional equipment to address gas leaks.

5. Physical Symptoms

Exposure to gas leaks can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or breathing difficulties. If you or your family experience any of these symptoms, it’s not unreasonable to suspect a gas leak. Leave the area immediately and seek fresh air. Afterwards, contact emergency plumbing services to inspect and resolve the issue.

Signs of Water Leaks

Identifying a water leak early can prevent significant damage to your property and save money on repairs. Here are key signs of a water leak:

1. Visible Water and Damage

Water leaks often manifest as damp spots, stains, or peeling paint on walls, ceilings, or floors. If you notice any of these signs without an apparent cause, it’s time to investigate further. After all, water damage can escalate quickly, leading to costly repairs.

To prevent further leaks, you can turn off the fixture shut off valve in the leaky fixture or plumbing or your water main just to be safe. DIY fixes can take care of smaller leaks, but it’s best to call your plumber to make sure everything is taken care of properly.

2. Dripping or Gurgling Sounds

Do you hear the sound of water dripping or an unusual gurgling noise when all your taps are turned off? This can indicate a hidden leak. Check around your appliances, pipes, and fixtures to locate the source. Some of the most common places in your home where leaks occur are the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry areas, so check the connection on these areas first.

3. Mould and Sewage Smells

A musty or mouldy smell in your home can signal a hidden water leak, as damp conditions can result in and accelerate mould growth. Similarly, a sewage smell, especially near drains, can indicate a leak in the sewer line. Both mould and sewage pose health risks and should be addressed promptly.

While you wait for the plumber to arrive, you can take care of the mould using diluted white vinegar on a microfiber cloth. It’s important to put on protective accessories like gloves, a mask, and protective clothing when dealing with mould to prevent any health issues caused by the inhalation of spores. 

4. Increased Water Bill

Have you noticed a sudden spike in your water bill even if there isn’t a marked increase in usage? This often points to a hidden water leak. Monitor your water meter by turning off all water sources and checking if the meter still runs. If it does, it means you definitely have a water leak somewhere, and you need a plumber’s help to locate and fix it.

5. Structural Issues

Water leaks can cause significant structural damage over time. Look for signs like cracks in your foundation, sagging ceilings, or warped floors. Addressing these issues early can prevent long-term damage to your home’s structural integrity.

6. Allergic Symptoms

Leaks can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues due to mould growth and increased humidity. If you or your family experience heightened allergic reactions, sneezing, coughing, or skin irritation, it could be due to a hidden water leak. Book an appointment with a reliable, professional plumber as soon as possible. Then, clean out the mould with the previously mentioned diluted vinegar solution.

Being aware of the signs of plumbing leaks and acting promptly can protect your home and health. Also, regular maintenance and professional inspections are crucial in preventing leaks. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don't hesitate to take action. Remember, a little vigilance can go a long way in safeguarding your home and ensuring peace of mind.

Take a proactive step in safeguarding your home or business from costly plumbing issues by booking an appointment with Mains Plumbers today. It’s a smart move to have a professional inspect your plumbing system to prevent leaks before they become emergencies. Whether you need an emergency plumber in Dunedin, specialised industrial and commercial drainlaying, or expert gas fitting services, Mains Plumbers has you covered. Contact Mains Plumbers and keep your property leak-free and safe.