Hidden Water Leaks: 7 Warning Signs & What Detection Costs

A slow hidden leak can add R800 – R3,000 to your monthly water bill — and rot foundations.

7 warning signs

1. Water bill suddenly higher than usual
2. Damp patches on walls, ceilings or floors
3. Mould or peeling paint
4. Sound of running water when nothing is open
5. Water meter ticks over with all taps closed
6. Low water pressure throughout the house
7. Unexplained warm spots on tiled floors (hot water leak)

DIY leak test

1. Close every tap and appliance
2. Note the water meter reading
3. Wait 30 minutes — don't flush, don't use water
4. Re-read the meter

Any movement = a leak.

Professional detection costs

Service	Cost
Acoustic leak detection	R1,200 – R2,800
Thermal imaging	R1,500 – R3,500
Tracer-gas detection	R2,500 – R5,000
Full report with location	included with above

Non-invasive detection is far cheaper than breaking out tiles or excavating blindly.