How to Detect a Hidden Leak

Hidden leaks quietly rot framing and inflate bills. A 15-minute meter test tells you if you've got one.

Common causes

• Slab leak in a hot-water recirculation loop
• Pinhole in copper behind drywall
• Failing toilet flapper (silent leak)
• Cracked shower pan

Step-by-step

1. 01Shut off every fixture in the house for 30 minutes
2. 02Read the water meter, wait 30 min, and read again — any change means a leak
3. 03Add food colouring to each toilet tank — colour in the bowl = flapper leak
4. 04Feel walls and floors for warm spots (hot-line leak) or damp patches

When to call Northbridge

• Meter test shows movement with everything off
• Unexplained mildew smell in a specific area
• Water bill spiked with no change in usage
• Damp or discoloured drywall