At Homewise Plumbing & Drainage, we’ve been serving Greater Victoria and Sooke for over 20 years. In that time, we’ve seen firsthand how damaging hidden water leaks can be—especially in our region, where the vast majority of homes are 50-100+ years old! While Victorian-era charm is abundant, so too are aging pipes and vulnerable plumbing systems.
Hidden water leaks don’t just waste water—they can quietly undermine your home’s structure, damage flooring and drywall, encourage mold growth, and even reduce your property’s value. If you suspect something’s wrong but can’t see an obvious leak, here’s what to do next.
Signs You May Have a Hidden Leak
Hidden leaks don’t always announce themselves with visible water. Instead, they may show up subtly, so it’s important to be aware of early warning signs:
1. Unexpectedly High Water Bills
One of the first signs many homeowners notice is a sudden increase in their water bill. If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill spikes, water may be escaping somewhere unnoticed.
2. Musty or Earthy Smells
That damp, musty odour often associated with basements? It’s a red flag. Mould and mildew thrive in moist environments, and hidden leaks behind walls or under flooring can fuel their growth.
3. Warped Floors, Bubbling Paint or Peeling Wallpaper
Moisture trapped behind drywall can cause paint to blister or wallpaper to peel. In homes with hardwood, leaks may lead to warping or soft spots in the floor.
4. Running Water Sounds When Everything is Off
If you can hear water trickling or running but all taps and appliances are off, there’s likely a leak somewhere in the system.
5. Low Water Pressure
Reduced pressure in taps or showers—especially if isolated to one area—can signal a pipe leak or blockage.
Where Hidden Leaks Often Occur
Understanding where leaks commonly happen can help you narrow things down before bringing in a plumber:
- Behind Walls: Common in bathrooms and kitchens, leaks from supply lines or fittings often go unnoticed until they cause visible damage.
- Under Floors: Especially in slab-on-grade homes (common in some parts of Victoria and Sooke), leaks can develop in pipes running beneath the concrete foundation.
- Basements and Crawl Spaces: The West Coast’s wet climate, especially during Victoria’s rainy season, makes these areas prone to leaks and poor drainage.
- Around Appliances: Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters are frequent culprits—check the connections and the floor around them.
- Plumbing in Older Homes: Many heritage homes in Victoria still have galvanized steel or polybutylene piping, which is more susceptible to corrosion and failure.
Steps to Take Before Calling a Plumber
While many hidden leaks require a professional diagnosis, there are some proactive steps you can take:
Turn Off Fixtures and Check Your Water Meter
Record your water meter reading, then don’t use any water for a couple of hours. If the meter moves, water is flowing somewhere it shouldn’t be.
Inspect Exposed Plumbing
Look under sinks, behind toilets, and around water heaters for signs of corrosion, rust, moisture, or pooling.
Take Note of Your Home’s Age and Materials
Homes built before the 1970s may have plumbing materials prone to leaks. If your home falls into this category, you may want to consider a broader plumbing inspection.
Why Leak Detection Matters in Victoria BC
Victoria’s unique combination of older housing stock, rainy winters, and coastal humidity means moisture-related issues can escalate quickly. A hidden leak left unchecked can compromise structural integrity, reduce air quality, and lead to costly renovations. Prevention and early detection are key, especially in neighbourhoods like James Bay, Fernwood, Rockland or Vic West, where older homes often hide decades-old plumbing.
Need Help? Call the Experts.
If you’re seeing the signs of a hidden leak or simply want to ensure your home is leak-free, we’re here to help. The team at Homewise Plumbing & Drainage are experienced, friendly, and equipped with the right tools for the job.
Contact our Plumbers in Victoria BC today to schedule a leak inspection or plumbing service. We serve across the southern Island from Sooke to the Saanich Peninsula.