Broken pipes can result in structural damage and hundreds of dollars in wasted water. Unfortunately, the source of the issue can be difficult to detect without a professional building inspection, especially if the leak is behind concrete or underground. Here are a few of the most common signs your plumbing system may have a broken pipe.

5 Signs of a Broken Pipe

1. Increased Utility Expenses

If your water expenses have suddenly spiked far above normal, you may be paying for excess leaking water. To determine if there’s a leak, turn off all faucets and check the water meter. If the numbers have gone up a few hours later, water is still moving through the system and leaking somewhere else.

2. Peeling Paint & Wallpaper

Water damage isn’t always immediately apparent, especially if it’s running down the outside walls. Bubbling paint or peeling wallpaper could be a sign that water is continuously pouring into your walls, potentially causing permanent structural damage.

3. Loss of Water Pressure

In serious cases, a broken pipe can release enough water to affect all of the other fixtures in the building. Sudden, noticeable drops in water pressure may be related to serious plumbing damage, which may require a professional building inspection to locate.

4. Lush Areas in the Lawn

Not all pipe breaks occur inside the building. The line connecting the house to the water main can also crack, draining moisture into the soil outside. Patches of lush, green grass or dense weeds might indicate a fractured water line; although, you may need a professional building inspection to confirm the problem.

5. Sound of Running Water

Depending on the location and severity of the break, you may hear the sound of running water. This is especially common if a pipe is broken under the building or adjacent to an upstairs bathroom.

With nearly 40 years of experience in the industry and a reputation throughout Oahu for unmatched expertise, Construction Management Inspection, LLC, in Honolulu, HI, is the only construction management company you’ll ever need. If you suspect you have a water leak or broken pipe, their building inspection team will locate the issue and identify the extent of the damage as quickly as possible. Visit their website for more information about their inspection services, follow their Facebook for project updates, and call (808) 422-2132 to request a quote.