Facilities managers report that commercial and industrial buildings experience an average of 2 water leaks per building, per month. But our experience in the field has proven that even in the newest and highest quality buildings, water leaks occur much more frequently.
If your facilities teams aren't tackling multiple water leaks every month in each of your buildings, they might be missing some. And honestly, it's not their fault: a 50,000 sq ft office building has approximately 200 potential failure points across kitchen, laundry, and bathroom facilities alone - and that's before you even consider HVAC, mechanical rooms, and decorative water features.
The most reliable way to ensure you're on top of water leaks is to make a smart investment in the right water leak detection technology. But in the meantime, here are 17 signs that suggest you might have a water leak problem.
Unexplained increases in your water bills
A sudden spike in water costs without a corresponding increase in usage may indicate that you have a hidden leak. Monitoring monthly water bills isn't the most effective way to detect a leak: it will have to be big enough to make a signficant difference in usage, and it doesn't tell you where the leak is. But if you're already employing leak detection technologies and there is a variance, it's worth investigating.
A sudden drop in water pressure
A significant decrease in water pressure across a building may indicate a leak within the main water supply lines.
Visible warping or separation of building materials
Water leaks can cause wood, laminate, and vinyl materials to warp or separate at the seams, especially in flooring and paneling. If materials begin to shift or feel uneven, it could indicate hidden moisture.
Visible rust on metal fixtures and components
Corrosion and rust appearing on pipes, HVAC units, or metal structural supports indicate consistent exposure to moisture, which can be from can be from unseen leaks.
Unexplained puddles or condensation
Puddles of water or visible signs of condensation suddenly appearing without an obvious source, particularly near walls or equipment, can be a warning sign of ongoing leaks.
Ceiling tile discoloration or sagging
Even in well-maintained buildings, ceiling tiles that are stained or begin to sag suggest that water is leaking on to them from above, whether from plumbing, roofing, or HVAC condensation issues.
Cracks in foundations or concrete surfaces
Water intrusion can cause concrete to expand and contract, leading to structural cracks over time. These cracks can worsen if the source of moisture remains unaddressed.
Damp or soft flooring
Flooring materials that feel damp, soft, or warm to the touch may be hiding moisture beneath the surface, potentially due to leaks from plumbing or HVAC systems.
Musty or damp odors
Persistent musty smells often indicate mold or mildew growth, which thrives in damp environments. If these odors are present in storage areas, basements, or mechanical rooms, it may be a sign of a hidden leak.
Unusual sounds of running water
If water is heard moving through pipes when no fixtures are in use, it could indicate a hidden leak within walls, ceilings, or floors.
Unexpected pests or insect infestations
Some insects, like termites, carpenter ants, and silverfish, are drawn to moisture-damaged wood and other materials. If you experience an unexpected infestation, it could indicate hidden leak-related damage.
Mysterious electrical problems
Repeated short circuits, flickering lights, or malfunctions in electrical systems could be the result of water seeping into conduits, wiring, or circuit panels.
Inconsistent indoor humidity levels
Sudden changes in indoor humidity, particularly in climate-controlled environments, may suggest hidden moisture from leaks affecting the air balance within a building.
Peeling or blistering paint
When drywall or plaster absorbs moisture, paint and coatings lose adhesion, resulting in peeling or bubbling. This is particularly common in areas with high humidity or poor ventilation.
A wave of employees with unexplained illnesses
If multiple employees report unexplained illnesses, fatigue, or worsening allergies, it may indicate an underlying moisture problem contributing to Sick Building Syndrome. Mold growth, bacteria, and airborne contaminants thrive in moisture-damaged areas, leading to poor indoor air quality that can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and respiratory issues among employees.
Unusual cold spots or condensation
If certain areas of a building start to consistently feel colder or accumulate condensation, this could be due to hidden water leaks affecting insulation and air circulation.
Frequent HVAC system issues
Excess moisture from leaks can overload HVAC systems, leading to inefficient operation.
With LAIIER's water leak detection solution, you don't need to look for signs of water leaks. Severn WLD™ can detect and monitor water leaks in their early stages, preventing small leaks from escalating to cause more significant damage and downtime.
For more information, please view our pricing page, or book a call with our team for a one-on-one discussion!