By Matthew Brunes, Director of Reztor, Australia
Introduction
Water damage is one of the most common issues homeowners face, but it isn’t always obvious. A slow leak inside a wall, a burst pipe under the floor, or even poor ventilation can all create long-term problems that go unnoticed until they’ve caused serious (and expensive) damage.
Catching water damage early can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and protect your family’s health. Here are seven of the most common signs of hidden water damage in your home — and what you can do if you spot them.
1. Unexplained Musty Odours
If you notice a persistent musty smell, especially in basements, bathrooms, or near walls, it’s often a sign of mould or dampness. Water may be seeping into hidden spaces where it can’t dry properly.
2. Peeling Paint or Bubbling Wallpaper
Paint and wallpaper are good indicators of what’s happening behind your walls. If you see peeling, bubbling, or discoloured patches, it could mean moisture is trapped underneath.
3. Warped or Buckling Floors
Timber and laminate floors are especially sensitive to water. If your floorboards are warping, cupping, or feel spongy underfoot, it’s a red flag for water intrusion beneath the surface.
4. Stains or Discolouration on Walls and Ceilings
Yellow or brown patches are a classic sign that water has leaked through plaster, drywall, or ceilings. These spots often start small but can quickly spread if the leak continues.
5. Sudden Spike in Your Water Bill
A hidden leak can waste a surprising amount of water. If your bill suddenly jumps without any clear reason, it could point to a pipe leaking behind walls or under floors.
6. Mould Growth in Unusual Places
Mould thrives where there’s moisture. If you see mould patches in places that shouldn’t normally be damp — like bedrooms or living areas — it’s a strong sign of hidden water damage.
7. Sounds of Dripping or Running Water
Sometimes you can hear water before you see it. If you notice dripping, rushing, or trickling sounds behind walls or under floors, don’t ignore them. They’re often the first clue to a hidden leak.
What to Do if You Suspect Hidden Water Damage
- Act quickly. The longer water damage goes untreated, the more it spreads — leading to structural issues and mould growth.
- Investigate properly. Use moisture meters or call in professionals who can diagnose the problem without tearing walls apart.
- Fix the source. Don’t just patch the damage. Find and repair the leak or moisture source first.
- Restore safely. Work with trained restoration professionals to dry, clean, and repair affected areas properly.
At Reztor, we specialize in identifying and fixing hidden water damage before it becomes a major problem. Our water damage restoration services use advanced technology to detect moisture, dry out structures, and prevent mould growth — saving homeowners money, stress, and long-term damage.
Conclusion
Hidden water damage is easy to miss but hard to ignore once it sets in. By learning to spot the early warning signs — from musty smells to warped floors — you can take action before the damage spreads.
If you think your home might be affected, don’t wait. Professional help can mean the difference between a quick fix and a costly renovation.
About the Author
Matthew Brunes is the Director of Reztor, an Australian disaster restoration company specializing in flood, fire, and storm recovery. With hands-on experience across hundreds of properties, Matthew is passionate about helping homeowners protect their investments and restore peace of mind after disaster strikes.