Leak Detection

Leak Detection Services

Professional leak detection for water and gas systems in residential, commercial and strata properties.

The Plumb King provides practical leak detection services to help identify hidden water leaks, visible plumbing leaks, pressure-related faults and suspected gas leaks. Accurate diagnosis can reduce unnecessary damage, water waste, disruption and the cost of opening walls, floors or ceilings without a clear reason.

Complete Leak Detection Services

Leaks are not always obvious. Some appear as visible dripping, damp cabinetry or water stains, while others develop behind walls, beneath floors, underground or within concealed pipework. A leak may also show up as an unexplained increase in water use, poor pressure, mould, discolouration or the sound of running water when fixtures are turned off.

The right detection approach depends on the type of system, the location of the suspected leak, the building construction and the symptoms present. Our goal is to narrow down the likely source before recommending repair work.

Our Leak Detection Services

• Water leak detection
• Hidden leak investigation
• Visible plumbing leak assessment
• Pressure testing
• Pipe leak diagnosis
• Bathroom leak investigation
• Kitchen leak investigation
• Laundry leak investigation
• Toilet leak assessment
• Shower leak assessment
• Hot water system leak checks
• Underground water leak investigation
• Commercial leak detection
• Strata leak investigation
• Gas leak assessment
• Targeted plumbing repairs

Signs You May Have a Hidden Water Leak

• Unexpectedly high water bills
• The water meter moves when no fixtures are being used
• Damp or swollen cabinetry
• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
• Mould or persistent damp smells
• Reduced water pressure
• Warm or damp patches on floors
• The sound of running water
• Wet ground near buried pipework
• Recurring moisture after previous repairs

Water Meter Checks

A simple water meter check can help indicate whether water is moving through the system while all known fixtures and appliances are turned off. This does not locate the leak, but it can support further investigation.

Before checking the meter, make sure taps, toilets, irrigation, washing machines, dishwashers and other water-using appliances are not operating. If the meter continues to move, a concealed leak or running fixture may be present.

Pressure Testing

Pressure testing can help determine whether a water or gas line is holding pressure as expected. A pressure drop may indicate a leak, but the result still needs to be considered alongside the system layout, valves, appliances and accessible pipework.

Testing should be carried out using methods appropriate for the service and property.

Bathroom Leak Detection

Bathrooms contain multiple water and waste connections in a compact area, which can make the source of a leak difficult to identify. Moisture may come from tapware, flexible hoses, toilets, shower fittings, waste connections, baths, basins or concealed pipework.

Not every bathroom leak is caused by plumbing. Waterproofing, sealant, shower screens and building movement can also contribute to moisture. The source should be assessed before repair work begins.

Kitchen Leak Detection

Kitchen leaks commonly occur around mixer taps, flexi hoses, sink wastes, dishwasher connections, fridge water lines and isolation valves. Moisture inside cabinets should be investigated promptly because slow leaks can damage cabinetry and flooring.

Laundry Leak Detection

Laundry leaks may involve washing machine taps, inlet hoses, waste hoses, trough plumbing, sinks, floor wastes or concealed pipework. Appliance connections remain under pressure and can release water quickly if a hose or fitting fails.

Toilet Leak Detection

Toilets can leak internally or externally. Internal leaks may cause the cistern to refill repeatedly or allow water to run into the pan. External leaks may occur around the cistern, inlet valve, pan connector, base or nearby pipework.

Shower Leak Detection

Shower leaks may be related to tapware, mixers, shower heads, concealed pipework, wastes, screens, seals or waterproofing. Moisture outside the shower should be assessed carefully so the correct trade and repair method can be identified.

Hot Water System Leaks

Hot water systems can leak from valves, pipe connections, tanks, relief outlets or associated pipework. Some discharge may occur during normal operation, while constant or excessive leakage can indicate a fault.

The system type, age, condition and source of the water should be checked before deciding whether repair or replacement is required.

Underground Water Leaks

Underground leaks may occur in buried water services, irrigation connections or pipework between buildings. Possible signs include unexplained meter movement, damp soil, unusually green patches, reduced pressure or water surfacing where it should not.

Access, pipe depth, surface finishes and service locations all affect the investigation and repair approach.

Commercial Leak Detection

Commercial water leaks can disrupt operations, damage stock and increase water use. Offices, shops, hospitality venues, warehouses and managed properties may contain multiple fixtures, plant areas and service zones.

Useful information includes the affected area, when the issue occurs, recent water bills, site access and any previous repairs.

Strata Leak Investigation

Leaks in strata buildings can involve private lots, common property or shared services. Responsibility may depend on the location and source of the leak. Access to adjoining units, service ducts or common areas may be required during investigation.

Owners and managers should confirm approvals, access arrangements and reporting requirements before work begins.

Gas Leak Detection

Gas leaks require prompt attention. Warning signs may include a gas smell, hissing near pipework or appliances, unexplained gas use or appliances failing to operate correctly.

If you suspect a gas leak, avoid flames, sparks and electrical switches, ventilate the area where safe, turn off the gas supply if you know how and can do so safely, leave the area and contact the appropriate emergency or licensed gas service.

Common Causes of Plumbing Leaks

• Worn washers, seals and cartridges
• Corroded flexible hoses
• Loose fittings
• Cracked or damaged pipes
• Failed valves
• Ground movement
• Poor installation
• Excessive water pressure
• Ageing hot water systems
• Damaged appliance hoses
• Root intrusion
• Building movement

Visible Leak or Hidden Leak?

Visible Leaks

Visible leaks are often easier to diagnose because the source can be seen directly. Examples include dripping taps, leaking valves, damaged hoses and water escaping from accessible pipe joints.

Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks may occur behind walls, under floors, underground or inside cabinetry. They often require a combination of inspection, testing and targeted access to confirm the source.

Why Early Leak Detection Matters

Even a small leak can cause significant damage over time. Early investigation can help reduce:

• Water waste
• High water bills
• Damage to cabinets and flooring
• Mould and dampness
• Structural deterioration
• Damage to paint and plaster
• Disruption to tenants or businesses
• The risk of a larger pipe failure

Leak Detection and Repair

Finding the likely source is only the first step. Once the leak has been identified, the repair method depends on the pipe, fixture, fitting, location and surrounding finishes.

Possible repairs may include:

• Replacing washers or cartridges
• Replacing flexible hoses
• Repairing pipe sections
• Replacing valves
• Repairing appliance connections
• Replacing damaged fittings
• Replacing failed fixtures
• Accessing concealed pipework

Repair or Replace?

A local repair may be suitable where the damaged component is accessible and the surrounding plumbing is in reasonable condition. Replacement may be better where the pipework or fixture is heavily corroded, repeatedly failing or no longer reliable.

Repair May Be Suitable When:

• The fault is localised
• The surrounding plumbing is in good condition
• Compatible parts are available
• Access is practical
• The repair is likely to remain reliable

Replacement May Be Better When:

• The system is badly corroded
• Leaks keep returning
• Multiple sections are failing
• The fixture is obsolete
• Repair costs are high compared with replacement

Preventing Future Leaks

• Replace damaged flexible hoses
• Repair dripping taps promptly
• Check beneath sinks and vanities
• Monitor water bills
• Maintain suitable water pressure
• Inspect appliance connections
• Address corrosion early
• Keep isolation valves accessible
• Investigate recurring dampness
• Replace ageing fixtures when necessary

How Our Leak Detection Service Works

1. Tell us about the symptoms. Provide photos, meter information and details of when the issue occurs.
2. Initial assessment. Accessible fixtures, valves, pipework and affected areas are inspected.
3. Testing. Appropriate checks or pressure testing may be carried out.
4. Likely source identified. The findings are considered alongside the system layout and symptoms.
5. Repair options explained. Targeted repair, replacement or further investigation may be recommended.
6. Approved work completed. The agreed plumbing repair is carried out where practical.

Preparing for a Leak Detection Visit

• Provide recent water bills if relevant
• Note when the issue first appeared
• Take photos of stains, dampness or visible leaks
• Record whether the water meter moves when fixtures are off
• Clear access beneath sinks and around fixtures
• Provide details of previous repairs
• Confirm whether the property is tenanted or strata-managed
• Identify known pipe routes where possible

Why Choose The Plumb King?

• Water and gas leak investigation
• Residential, commercial and strata experience
• Practical diagnosis before unnecessary demolition
• Targeted repair and replacement advice
• Clear communication throughout the process
• Quality-focused workmanship

Leak Detection Service Areas

This pillar page supports future state, city and suburb pages. As the website expands, each location page can link back to this main Leak Detection authority page.

Leak Detection → State → City → Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I have a hidden water leak?

Common signs include unexplained water use, meter movement, dampness, staining, mould, poor pressure or running-water sounds.

Can a leak exist without visible water?

Yes. Concealed leaks can remain hidden behind walls, beneath floors or underground.

Can you find leaks under floors?

Potentially. The investigation method depends on the floor type, pipe layout and symptoms.

Can a toilet leak without making much noise?

Yes. A slow internal leak may only cause occasional refilling or increased water use.

Why is there water under my sink?

Possible causes include leaking tap connections, flexi hoses, wastes, traps or appliance hoses.

Can high water pressure cause leaks?

Yes. Excessive pressure can place additional strain on hoses, valves and fixtures.

Can you detect underground leaks?

Yes, depending on access, pipe depth, surface conditions and the available information.

Can you investigate leaks in strata properties?

Yes. Access, approvals and responsibility should be confirmed before work begins.

Can water leaks cause mould?

Yes. Persistent moisture can create conditions that support mould growth.

Can you repair the leak after finding it?

Often, yes. The repair depends on the source, access and condition of the plumbing.

Should I turn off the water if I find a leak?

If the leak is significant and you can safely access the isolation valve, turning off the supply may reduce damage.

Can a hot water system leak?

Yes. Leaks can occur from valves, tanks, fittings and associated pipework.

Can a gas leak be dangerous?

Yes. Suspected gas leaks require immediate safety precautions and professional attention.

What should I do if I smell gas?

Avoid flames, sparks and electrical switches, ventilate where safe, leave the area and contact the appropriate emergency or licensed gas service.

Can water bills increase because of a hidden leak?

Yes. Even a small continuous leak can increase water use over time.

Can recurring leaks mean the pipework needs replacing?

Potentially. Repeated failures can indicate broader deterioration rather than a single local fault.

Do you use pressure testing?

Pressure testing may be used where appropriate to help determine whether a system is holding pressure.

Can a shower leak be caused by waterproofing?

Yes. Moisture may come from plumbing, waterproofing, sealant, screens or building movement.

What information helps with a leak detection quote?

Photos, water bills, meter information, site details and a clear description of the symptoms are useful.

Can several suspected leaks be assessed together?

Yes. Providing the full list of symptoms can help the investigation be planned efficiently.

Request a Leak Detection Quote

Suspect a hidden water leak, gas leak or recurring plumbing fault? Contact The Plumb King to discuss the symptoms and request a leak detection quote.

Request a Quote