How Do I Know If My Pipes Are Leaking Underground?
Underground pipe leaks are one of those plumbing problems that can go unnoticed for a long time. Because the pipes are hidden beneath soil, concrete or paving, there is often no obvious drip or puddle to point you to the issue. Instead, the signs usually show up slowly and in places you might not immediately connect to plumbing.
The good news is that underground leaks almost always leave clues. If you know what to look for, you can often spot a problem early and avoid unnecessary water waste or damage.
What Is an Underground Pipe Leak?
An underground pipe leak occurs when a water pipe beneath the ground cracks, splits or develops a joint failure. These pipes may run under your yard, driveway, paths or even under the house slab.
Because the water escapes below the surface, it soaks into soil rather than pooling where you can see it. This is why underground leaks tend to go unnoticed until they start affecting water pressure, bills or the condition of the surrounding ground.
Early Warning Signs of an Underground Pipe Leak
One of the most common signs is an unexplained increase in your water bill. If your usage suddenly rises without any changes to your household routine, a hidden leak is often the cause. Even a small leak can waste a surprising amount of water when it runs constantly.
Damp or spongy patches in the yard are another strong indicator. If parts of your lawn stay wet, soft or unusually green during dry weather, water may be leaking into the soil below. This is especially noticeable when there has been no rain.
Reduced water pressure inside the home can also point to an underground leak. When water escapes before it reaches your taps, the pressure drops. This change is often gradual, which makes it easy to dismiss at first.
Unusual sounds can be a clue as well. If you hear hissing, trickling or the sound of water moving when all taps and appliances are off, it may indicate water flowing where it should not be.
Cracks in paths, driveways or foundations can develop over time if leaking water washes away soil beneath them. This soil movement can cause surfaces to sink, shift or crack.
Signs Inside the Home
Some underground leaks show up indoors before they are noticed outside. Damp patches on floors, walls or carpets without an obvious source can be linked to pipes leaking below the surface.
Mould or musty smells are another warning sign, particularly if they appear in areas that are usually dry. In some cases, a hot water pipe leaking underground can cause warm spots on floors, which are noticeable when walking barefoot.
Simple Checks Homeowners Can Do
One of the most useful checks is the water meter test. Turn off all taps and water-using appliances, then check your water meter. If the meter is still moving, water is flowing somewhere it should not be.
You can also do a simple isolation test by turning off the main water supply to the house and checking the meter again. If the meter continues to move with the supply off, the leak is likely between the meter and the house.
These checks are helpful indicators, but they are not definitive. They can tell you that a leak is likely, not exactly where it is.
Why Ignoring an Underground Leak Is Risky
Leaving an underground leak unchecked can lead to ongoing water waste and higher bills. Over time, constant moisture can damage soil, landscaping and nearby structures.
Leaks also tend to worsen. A small crack can slowly expand, increasing the amount of water lost and raising the risk of sudden pipe failure later on.
When to Get Professional Help
If you have multiple warning signs, a consistently rising water bill, or a meter that moves when all water is off, professional assessment is recommended. Underground leaks require specialised detection methods to locate accurately without unnecessary digging. Early diagnosis helps limit damage, reduce water loss and avoid more extensive repairs down the track.
Key Takeaway
Underground pipe leaks are easy to miss but hard to ignore once the signs start adding up. Unusual water bills, damp ground, pressure changes and unexplained sounds are all clues worth paying attention to. Acting early gives you the best chance to protect your plumbing system and prevent a small issue from becoming a major problem.
If you suspect an underground leak or want peace of mind before it causes further damage, it is worth getting it checked properly. An experienced plumber can locate hidden leaks accurately, minimise disruption, and help prevent ongoing water loss and costly repairs. Our Team service Adelaide Metropolitan area and beyond. If you need a plumber in Adelaide, get in touch today on (08) 8261 0165 for a free plumbing quote.
Other plumbing articles
