Common Warning Signs
Because slab leaks develop underneath the foundation, most homeowners never see the pipe itself. Instead, the leak shows up as a change somewhere else in the home. Catching these signs early can mean the difference between a straightforward repair and significant water damage.
Unexplained Water Bill Increase
A noticeable jump in your bill with no obvious change in usage is one of the most common early signs of a slab leak.
Warm Spot on the Floor
If a hot water line is leaking, a section of flooring may feel noticeably warmer than the rest of the room.
Sound of Running Water
Hearing water running when every fixture in the house is off can indicate water moving through a damaged line.
Meter Movement With Everything Off
If your water meter keeps moving after you shut off every fixture and appliance, water is escaping somewhere in the system.
Cracks in Flooring or Walls
Water pooling under the slab can cause the foundation to shift slightly, leading to new cracks in tile, walls, or the foundation itself.
Damp Carpet or Baseboards
Moisture wicking up through flooring or along baseboards, especially in a spot with no obvious plumbing fixture nearby, is worth investigating.