As Sydney locals, we know just how common pipe leaks are—especially in older homes. We’re blessed with Sydney’s abundance of green space, but leafy suburbs with tree-lined streets can spell trouble for underground plumbing as tree root intrusion is one of the biggest culprits. With so many mature trees across Sydney, roots often find their way into ageing pipes, leading to cracks, blockages and leaks.
Ignoring these small plumbing issues can result in serious consequences such as water damage, increased water bills, and even trigger mould growth. To help prevent this from happening to you, let’s explore the five most common places we find pipe leaks in Sydney homes—and how to tackle them early.
What Causes a Pipe Leak?
Pipe leaks in Sydney homes can occur for various reasons, including ageing infrastructure, corrosion, shifting soil, sudden spikes in water pressure and poor insulation.
Tree root intrusion is another major culprit, particularly in areas with mature landscaping and older clay or earthenware pipes. These are usually homes built before the 1970s, when clay and earthenware materials were commonly used for sewer and stormwater lines for property owners in Sydney. Even a small gap in the pipe can attract roots, which force their way in and expand over time, worsening the leak.
No matter the cause, these issues often develop out of sight, making early detection tricky. That’s why it’s important to know the most common places where leaks tend to occur.
The Most Common Places for Pipe Leaks
Under Kitchen Sinks
One of the most common places where leaks occur is under the kitchen sink where loose fittings, corrosion or excessive water pressure are often the main cause. One of the more easily detectable types of leaks, you might notice pooling water, musty smells or visible drips. Regularly checking seals and replacing worn-out parts can help prevent major damage.
Bathroom Pipes
Bathroom pipes are prone to wear and tear because of the constant exposure to water and humidity. This is especially the case for ageing pipes and joint failures. Look out for signs of mouldy walls, damp floors and persistent dripping sounds. Calling in a plumber early to seal the leaks can save on costly repairs and prevent mould growth, which can become a health risk if left untreated.
Outdoor Garden Taps and Pipes
Sydney’s changing weather takes a toll on outdoor plumbing. Exposure to the elements, such as our incredible storms, and tree root intrusion can all lead to leaks. Look out for soggy soil, rusty fittings or low water pressure. Insulating exposed pipes, replacing old taps and having an internal pipe inspection can help.
Hot Water System Connections
Hot water systems are another common leak source. This is a result of high-water pressure, rust, or faulty valves that cause leaks and affect your hot water supply, which is no fun when having a hot shower in winter. Look for pooling water near the hot water unit or inconsistent water temperature. Regular plumbing maintenance is key to preventing bigger issues.
Beneath House Foundations
One of the trickier leaks to detect—shifting foundations and corrosion can also contribute. Warning signs to watch for include damp patches, higher water bills or poor water flow. These leaks often require professional leak detection and trenchless pipe relining repair.
Is it Time to Call a Licensed Plumber for Your Pipe Leaks?
So many small Sydney water pipe leaks lead to serious damage if left unchecked—too often we see mould, foundation issues, and skyrocketing water bills because a customer ignored the issue or neglected plumbing maintenance. Early intervention is the best way to prevent costly repairs down the line. If you’ve spotted any warning signs around your Sydney home, it’s worth getting a professional opinion.
At The Relining Company we’re experts at Sydney plumbing inspections, fixing leaks and no-dig pipe repair to help homeowners keep their properties in top shape.
Call 02 8339 4695 or contact us today to book an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find out where a pipe is leaking?
To identify where a pipe is leaking, look for signs like damp spots, mould, water stains or bathroom leaks such as a running toilet bowl. An unexplained increase in your water bill is another possible sign.
Check your water meter when all taps are turned off and use professional leak detection tools if needed.
How to find a water leak underground in Australia?
Underground plumbing leaks are often detected using acoustic listening devices, thermal imaging, or professional leak detection services such as a mini-CCTV camera inserted into your pipes or blocked drains by a professional plumber.
How to find hidden water leaks in the house?
To find hidden water leaks, look for musty smells, bubbling paint, damp walls, or check your meter for unusual usage when no water is running through your water pipes.
How much does leak detection cost in Sydney?
The price of leak detection services in Sydney will vary depending on where the leak is located, the equipment required and the complexity of the job. Contact The Relining Company today for a bespoke quote.
Back to Top