How to detect, prevent and fix water leaks in your home

From burst pipes flooding your kitchen to hidden leaks causing structural rot, escaped water can harm both your home and your finances. And home insurance may not cover all types of damage caused by escaping water – so regular checks can save a lot of hassle. 

The good news is that some water leaks are preventable. By knowing the signs and performing regular maintenance, you can lower your risk of water damage in your home. Here’s how to do it.

Common types of water damage

Water leaks come in many forms. Understanding the different types of water damage can help you spot problems before they escalate.

Sudden burst pipes

A sudden pipe failure can cause significant flooding and should be treated as an emergency.

Flexi hose failures

Flexible braided hoses (commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms and laundries) are a popular choice in Australian homes – they’re affordable and easy to install. But they can burst due to fraying, rusting, or kinking.

Slow and concealed leaks

These are harder to spot as they happen inside walls, under floors, or in cabinetry. Over time, they can cause:

• mould
• rotting timber, and
• structural issues.

Roof and gutter leaks

Blocked gutters or damaged roof tiles can force rainwater into your ceiling cavity.

Appliance leaks

Dishwashers, washing machines, and hot water systems can develop leaks from worn seals or connections.

How to detect water leaks

Look for visual and auditory signs in your ceiling

Keep your eyes peeled and your ears sharp for these warning signs:

• Brown, rusty, or tea-coloured stains in your ceiling often indicate a roof leak or a plumbing issue on the floor above. Bubbling or peeling paint is another red flag.
• Floorboards that start to cup or lift, or carpets that feel damp, can indicate a leak underneath.
• Black mould spores in cupboards, on walls, or on ceilings suggest excess moisture.
• Hissing sound or dripping noise behind a wall when no taps are running.

Do the water meter test

If you suspect a hidden leak, use your water meter to confirm it. This is a reliable method for how to detect water leaks that aren't visible.

1.     Turn off all taps and water-using appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, evaporative cooler).

2.     Locate your water meter (usually at the front of your property).

3.     Write down the numbers on the meter.

4.     Wait at least one hour. Do not use any water during this time.

5.     Check the meter again. If the numbers have changed, you likely have a leak somewhere on your property.

Uncovering underground water leaks

Leaks in the pipes running from your meter to your house can be tricky to spot. If your meter test shows a leak but you can't find damp spots inside, look outside for:

• Unusually green or grassy patches in your lawn – this may indicate a leaking pipe beneath the surface.
• Damp soil or pavers – puddles that don’t dry up or sunken pavers can indicate soil erosion caused by underground water leak detection issues.
• Drop in water pressure – a significant drop in pressure at your taps can signal a break in the main line.

How to lower your risk and prevent water damage at home

Inspect flexi hoses regularly

Flexi hoses generally have a limited lifespan, often 5 to 10 years. Check the hoses under your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry sinks. Consider contacting a licenced plumber to replace them immediately if you see signs of:

• rust
• fraying metal mesh, or
• kinks.

Maintain your plumbing and roof

• Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes to prevent overflow into your eaves.
• Avoid planting large trees near utility lines. Tree roots seek out moisture and can crack underground pipes.
• Regularly inspect the connections on appliances such as your washing machine and dishwasher.

Prepare for holidays

Coming home to a flooded house is a nightmare. If you’re going away for an extended period be sure to:

• Turn off the mains. This is the safest way to prevent leaks while you are not there to stop them.
• Check your manufacturer’s hot water systems guide. You may be able to turn off your hot water system to save energy and reduce risk.

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What to do if you find a leak

1. Turn off the water mains

Locate your main stop valve – they’re usually near the water meter. Turn it off to stop the flow.

2. Safety first

If water has reached power points or light fittings, turn off your electricity at the switchboard if it’s safe to do so.

If it’s not safe, stay away from flooded areas and don’t touch electrical fixtures. Seek help from a qualified electrician or your electricity provider. If you’re in immediate danger, call 000.

3. Contain the damage

Use towels or buckets to catch drips and move furniture away from the wet area.

4. Call a professional

Contact a licensed plumber immediately to fix the issue.

5. Check your insurance

Contact us to lodge a claim. Taking photos of the damage can be very helpful for your claim assessment.

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Are you covered?

GIO Home and Contents Insurance can cover you for damage or loss caused by certain water leaks under the Escape of liquid insured event. Damage caused by gradual deterioration, such as a slow leak that you knew was occurring or a lack of maintenance may not be covered.

This is why regular checks and maintenance are so important. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for full details on what is and isn't covered.

If you want extra peace of mind, consider adding GIO Home Assist to your policy. With GIO Home Assist, you can access 24/7 assistance from trusted tradespeople for plumbing emergencies. Conditions, limits and exclusions apply so make sure you read the PDS for the full details.

Add Optional GIO Home Assist Cover

Read more:

• How much should I insure my home for?
• Choosing the right optional covers for your home insurance
• Top DIY projects to enhance your home

Insurance issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as GIO. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.

The information is intended to be of general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon the information. Please make your own enquiries.