The most obvious sign is an unexplained increase in your water bill – even a small leak can waste 15 to 20 gallons per day. You might also notice damp or discolored spots on walls, ceilings, or floors, especially in areas where plumbing runs behind the surfaces.
Listen for the sound of running water when all fixtures are turned off, or check your water meter when no water is being used – if it’s still moving, you likely have a leak somewhere. Musty odors, especially in basements or crawl spaces, can indicate water accumulation from hidden leaks.
In Placer County’s hard water environment, you might also notice reduced water pressure, which can indicate mineral buildup caused by small leaks that have been ongoing for some time.