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12 Mar 25

Top five most common home leaks and how to spot them

Leaky pipes, dripping taps, and running toilets might seem like small issues, but they can waste thousands of litres of water each year, drive up your water bill, and may even cause damage to your home. The good news? Many leaks are easy to spot—and even easier to fix when you book a FREE Leak Visit!

1. Dripping taps

A dripping tap might not look like much, but did you know it can waste thousands of litres of water every year?

How to spot a dripping tap:

  • A steady drip coming from the tap, even when the tap is fully turned off.
  • Water stains or limescale build-up around the tap.

How it can escalate:

  • Higher water bills.
  • Limescale damage leading to bigger plumbing issues.

Quick check: Try tightening the tap or replacing the washer. But if the drip persists, book a FREE Leak Visit so we can fix it for you! Text BoxWant to know exactly how much water your dripping tap is wasting? Watch our video below.

2. Running toilets

A running toilet can waste up to 400 litres* of water a day, adding unnecessary costs to your bill.

How to spot it:

  • A constant hissing or trickling sound from the cistern.
  • Water running into the bowl when the toilet hasn’t been flushed.

How it can escalate:

  • Higher water bills.
  • Increased risk of internal leaks, leading to costly repairs.

Quick check: Put some toilet paper, or a LeakyLoo strip on the back of the toilet pan and leave it overnight. If the paper or strip gets wet, you’ve got a leak! Don’t let your money go down the toilet - book a FREE Leak Visit today.

3. Leaking showerheads

A dripping showerhead can also waste thousands of litres of water a year.

How to spot it:

  • Water keeps dripping after the shower is turned off.
  • Low water pressure or uneven spray patterns.

How it can escalate:

  • Limescale build-up reduces efficiency.
  • Moisture damage, leading to mould and mildew.

4. Pipe leaks

Leaks can occur in pipes hidden behind walls, beneath floors, or undersinks, wasting water without you even noticing.

How to spot it:

  • Unexpectedly high water bills.
  • Damp patches on walls, ceilings, or floors.
  • A musty smell or signs of mould.

How it can escalate:

  • Structural damage to your home.
  • Expensive repair costs if left unchecked.

Quick check: Turn off all taps and appliances, then check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you may have a hidden leak. 

We teamed up with Alex and Olivia Bowen to teach them about the Look and Listen test, watch the video below.

5. Leaking outdoor taps or pipes

Leaks aren’t just an indoor problem - outdoor taps and underground pipes can also waste water.

How to spot it:

  • Puddles forming around outdoor taps or hose connections.
  • Reduced water pressure in hoses.

How it can escalate:

  • Higher water bills.
  • Damage to foundations or garden areas.

Quick check: Inspect outdoor taps and hose connections for drips or damp patches. If you notice a leak, let us help - book a FREE Leak Visit today!

Don’t let leaks drain your wallet Small leaks can turn into big problems if left unchecked. Regularly checking your taps, toilets, and pipes can save you money and prevent water waste. If you’re unsure about a leak, don’t worry - we’ll fix it for you**, completely free of charge! Book a free leak visit

*Stats from waterwise 
**Subject to eligibility 
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