Not all leaks make noise.
Not all leaks leave puddles.
And not all leaks show up on day one.

As a plumber in Sacramento, I’ve found water leaks hiding under floors, behind walls, and even dripping slowly into crawl spaces — causing serious damage before the homeowner had any clue.

So how do you know?

Here’s what I tell my clients to look for — and where I usually find the source.

9 Signs You Might Have a Water Leak

1. Unusually High Water Bills

If your bill suddenly jumps for no reason — and your usage hasn’t changed — you may have a hidden leak running 24/7.

2. The Sound of Running Water (When Everything’s Off)

No faucets on. No washer running. But you hear a faint hissing or trickling in the wall? Call someone.

3. Stained or Warped Floors

Water seeping under tile, wood, or laminate can cause buckling, discoloration, or soft spots underfoot.

4. Musty or Damp Smells

If part of your home smells like an old basement — even if it’s not wet — that’s often a hidden leak creating slow mold growth.

5. Wall or Ceiling Stains

Brown or yellow spots usually mean water is leaking from above — either from a pipe or roof line.

6. Mold in Weird Places

If you’re cleaning mold near the baseboards, under cabinets, or behind toilets — there’s likely water where it shouldn’t be.

7. Cracks in Foundation or Walls

Sudden cracks can be from shifting soil due to water leaks underground or near the slab.

8. Hot or Cold Spots on the Floor

This can happen when hot or cold water lines under the slab develop leaks.

9. Water Meter Spins with Everything Off

The ultimate test: shut off everything in the house, then check the water meter. If it’s spinning, there’s a leak somewhere.

6 Common Places I Find Leaks in Sacramento Homes

1. Under Sinks

Loose P-traps, cracked pipes, or worn-out washers cause slow leaks that go unnoticed until the cabinet base warps.

2. Toilet Supply Lines and Seals

Flexible hoses, angle stops, or wax rings can all leak — especially in older homes or after DIY installs.

3. Behind the Shower Wall

Sometimes, it’s a leaking valve. Other times, it’s a failed tile seal or old grout letting water through.

4. Inside the Slab (Slab Leaks)

These are the tricky ones — and a big deal.
They often require repiping or rerouting water lines.

5. Appliances (Washers, Dishwashers, Water Heaters)

Leaky supply hoses, corroded valves, or clogged drains can all cause damage behind or under the unit.

6. Irrigation or Outdoor Pipes

A broken sprinkler line or hose bib can soak your yard (or foundation) for weeks without being noticed.

What We Do at Golden Valley Plumbing

When you call us for a leak concern, we:

• Inspect the house with tools and trained eyes
• Use moisture meters and pressure tests
• If needed, use leak detection equipment
• Find the issue, explain your options, and get it fixed — fast

Think you’ve got a hidden leak? Call Golden Valley Plumbing — we’ll find it, fix it, and help you prevent it from coming back.

Final Word

Small leaks become big damage.
The longer they stay hidden, the more they cost to fix.

If you suspect something’s off — trust your gut.
Better a quick check now than a major repair later.