If you detect any of these, our toilet and tap leak plumber will respond to an emergency call-out within our business hours as soon as possible.
It’s best to call immediately—even slow leaks can escalate and cause water waste or damage.
Temporary fixes like tape or sealants may slow leaks, but only a licensed plumber can provide a permanent, safe repair.
Common causes include worn washers, cracked pipes, faulty valves, or corrosion in older plumbing.
Yes, upgrading old pipes, valves, and fixtures with quality materials can significantly reduce the risk of leaks.
Signs of a hidden water leak in a Brisbane home include: your water meter moving when all taps are off, unexplained increases in your water bill, damp or discoloured patches on walls or ceilings, mould or mildew appearing without an obvious cause, the sound of running water when nothing is in use, soft or spongy areas in timber floors, and cracks appearing in walls near plumbing. Call a Brisbane plumber for a leak detection inspection if you notice any of these.
Licensed Brisbane plumbers use several non-invasive leak detection methods: (1) Acoustic listening devices that detect the sound of water escaping through pipes. (2) Thermal imaging cameras that identify temperature differences caused by hidden moisture. (3) Pressure testing to isolate which section of pipe is leaking. (4) Tracer gas testing, where a harmless gas is injected into pipes and detected at the leak point. These methods pinpoint leaks without unnecessary damage to walls or floors.
Professional leak detection in Brisbane Northside typically costs between $150 and $400 for the inspection. If the leak is found and repaired in the same visit, total costs range from $250 to $800 depending on location and repair complexity. Underground or slab leaks requiring excavation can cost $1,000–$3,000+. Most Brisbane plumbers apply the inspection fee toward the repair cost if you proceed with the fix.
To check for a water leak using your Brisbane water meter: (1) Turn off all taps, appliances, and irrigation systems. (2) Locate your water meter — usually near the front property boundary. (3) Note the reading and check if the dial or display is moving. (4) Wait 30 minutes without using water and recheck. If the reading has changed, you have a leak. Contact your Brisbane plumber or Queensland Urban Utilities (13 26 57) depending on which side of the meter the leak is on.
Yes. A dripping tap leaking at just one drop per second wastes approximately 9,000 litres of water per year — adding around $30–$60 to an average Brisbane water bill annually. A constantly running toilet can waste up to 100,000 litres per year and increase bills by $300–$600. Seqwater and Brisbane City Council recommend fixing leaking taps and toilets immediately to reduce water waste and lower household costs.
Under the Queensland Residential Tenancies Act, landlords are responsible for maintaining rental properties in a habitable condition, including fixing water leaks promptly. Tenants should report leaks in writing to their property manager as soon as discovered. Urgent leaks — such as burst pipes or leaks causing property damage — must be repaired within 24 hours. Tenants may arrange emergency repairs and claim reimbursement if the landlord fails to act on an urgent repair request.
Underground leak detection locates leaks in pipes buried beneath your yard, driveway, or slab without excavation. Brisbane plumbers use acoustic sensors or tracer gas to pinpoint the leak location to within centimetres before any digging begins. You need underground leak detection if your water bill is rising without explanation, there are wet patches in your yard without rainfall, the ground near your home is sinking or cracking, or your water pressure has dropped significantly.
Some minor leaking tap repairs — such as replacing a tap washer or O-ring — can be done as a DIY fix if you are comfortable with basic plumbing. However, under Queensland plumbing laws, any work involving water supply connections, drainage, or hot water systems must be done by a licensed plumber. If a leaking tap involves the internal valve seat or mixer cartridge, call a licensed Brisbane plumber to avoid voiding your home warranty or insurance.
