Most plumbing issues don’t start with a bang — they start with a drip, a rattle, or a strange smell you tell yourself you’ll get around to later. But left alone, those “small” problems can quickly become big, expensive ones. If you own a home in Melbourne, here are seven plumbing red flags you really don’t want to ignore.
1. That Dripping Tap That’s Been Going for Months
A tap that won’t shut off properly isn’t just annoying — it could be wasting thousands of litres of water a year, driving up your bill and quietly costing you more than you realise. It’s usually a simple fix that’s well worth it.
2. Slow Drains (Especially More Than One)
If the kitchen sink gurgles like it’s had a big night out, or your shower turns into a bath every morning, it’s not just a nuisance — it’s a sign of a partial blockage. Multiple slow drains can mean a deeper issue in your main sewer line, which can get ugly (and expensive) fast.
3. A Water Heater That’s Losing Its Touch
If your hot water runs out quicker than it used to, or if the pressure’s weak and the temperature’s inconsistent, your system might be trying to tell you something. Don’t wait until it dies completely — especially in the middle of winter.
4. Random Patches of Damp or Mould
Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or cabinetry often mean there’s a leak behind the scenes. Not only can this damage your home structurally, but it also invites mould — which is a health risk, particularly for kids and people with asthma.
5. Bubbling Paint or Swollen Cabinetry
Bathroom or laundry looking warped around the edges? That might not be bad paint — it could be water slowly soaking in from a hidden leak. Catch it early and you might save yourself from redoing cabinetry, walls, or even flooring.
6. That Toilet That Keeps Running
It might seem like a minor issue, but a toilet that doesn’t shut off properly can waste hundreds of litres a day. Plus, it usually means a worn-out valve or seal that, if left unchecked, can fail entirely and cause a surprise overflow.
7. Unusually High Water Bills
If your water bill spikes but nothing’s changed in your household routine, it could be a leak underground or somewhere out of sight. These are often missed until serious damage has already occurred — and they’re much easier to deal with if caught early.
Don’t Wait Until It’s an Emergency
It’s easy to put off plumbing problems, but often they don’t go away — they just get more expensive. If something seems off, it’s always worth getting a licensed plumber to take a quick look. A small fix now could save you thousands down the track.
We’re local, qualified, and ready to help with fast response times across all of Melbourne. No pressure, just honest advice and solid work.