Signs of a leak you cannot see
- A water bill noticeably higher than the same period last year
- The meter dial moving when every tap is off
- A floor that feels warm over a buried hot line
- Mildew odours, blistered paint or puffy baseboards
- A trickling sound in a wall after everyone is in bed
Where leaks hide in Scarborough homes
In post-war bungalows, copper lines often run through basement ceilings and along exterior walls, where pinholes form near elbows. Split-levels and back-splits, common around Bendale and Wexford, have short pipe runs tucked behind half-walls that are easy to miss. In townhouses and condos, a leak may be coming from a neighbouring unit, which needs a different conversation.
Do the meter test: Close all taps, jot down the meter figure, leave the water untouched for an hour, then compare. Any change suggests a leak. See our meter guide.
How we track down a leak
- We confirm there is a leak using the meter and isolating sections of the system.
- Fixtures, appliance connections and visible pipe are checked first.
- Moisture readings and thermal checks narrow down the wet area.
- A small, targeted opening is made at the most likely spot.
- The damaged pipe or fitting is repaired, and the system is retested.
What affects cost
A leak that shows up under a sink is quick to find. One inside a finished wall or under a basement slab takes longer to isolate. We keep openings small so drywall repair is simple afterwards.
When to call
Call promptly if you see active dripping, sagging drywall or water near electrical fixtures. Shut the main valve if water is spreading. Our shut-off guide shows where it usually is.