Practical guidance
Catch Slow Water Leaks Early
A five-minute inspection around fixtures and appliances can reveal leaks before they cause major damage.
By KL Properties
Small leaks often begin as a damp cabinet, a toilet that refills by itself, or a stain that slowly changes color. Finding them early can limit damage and wasted water.
What to check
- Look under sinks with a flashlight and feel for dampness around supply lines and drain connections.
- Check around toilets for moisture, movement at the base, or repeated refilling when no one has flushed.
- Inspect the floor and wall near the dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator supply line, and water heater.
- Watch for bubbling paint, swollen trim, musty odors, or unexplained ceiling stains.
- Learn where the home’s main water shutoff is located before an emergency occurs.
Dry a minor spill and recheck the area so you can tell whether moisture returns. Renters should photograph and report suspected leaks promptly instead of opening walls or making plumbing repairs. Shut off the water if it is safe to do so during an active leak, and call a qualified plumber or property manager for hidden, recurring, or substantial leaks.