Water damage is one of those sneaky problems. One minute everything seems fine, and the next you’re dealing with warped floors, peeling paint or a musty smell. In Australia where our homes face summer storms due to coastal humidity, spotting water damage early can save you from a big headache and a big repair bill.

The tricky part? Water damage isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it hides behind walls or under the floor. That’s why you need to know what to look for. Here are eight signs of water damage around the home you can’t ignore.

1. Strange Stains or Discoloured Patches

You know those weird yellow or brown patches that pop up on ceilings or walls? That’s often your first sign water’s been where it shouldn’t be. These stains tend to:

• Look like uneven circles or streaks
• Appear around windows, light fittings or the ceiling cornice
• Get worse after rain or plumbing issues

They’re not just cosmetic — they usually mean water has seeped into your plaster or paintwork and is quietly damaging underneath.

2. Your Water Bill Has Gone Up for No Reason

If your water usage hasn’t changed but your bill’s jumped up it could mean there’s a leak somewhere. You might not see water pooling anywhere but it could be seeping into the walls or under the floor. Some signs to look for:

• Wet patches under sinks or around toilets
• Water meter spinning even when no taps are on
• A slow leak you only notice during a storm

If you’re not sure where to start, this guide on water leaking in your home will walk you through some simple steps you can take to check for leaks.

3. Peeling or Bubbling Paint and Wallpaper

When water gets behind paint or wallpaper, it causes the adhesive to lose grip, leading to bubbling, peeling or flaking. This damage is a clear sign moisture has seeped into the walls.

In older homes or those with poor waterproofing you might notice this around bathrooms, kitchens or external walls that face heavy rainfall. This sign usually precedes mould growth so you need to act fast.

4. That Damp, Musty Smell

You know that smell — a bit earthy, a bit stale and it just lingers? It’s a big giveaway that something is damp, even if you can’t see it yet. Often this means mould is growing somewhere nearby, especially in:

• The back of cupboards or wardrobes
• Carpeted rooms that have been wet
• Areas with poor ventilation like bathrooms or laundries

If the smell lingers even after a clean, there’s a good chance moisture is trapped somewhere nearby.

5. Warped or Buckled Flooring

If your timber floorboards or laminate flooring start to warp, buckle or cup this can be a clear sign of water damage beneath the surface. Water causes timber to swell and lose its shape which can lead to uneven floors, creaking sounds or even gaps between boards.

Similarly tiles that start to lift or crack may have water trapped underneath. If you notice any of these symptoms it’s time to investigate the cause before the damage gets worse.

6. Damp or Wet Carpets and Underlay

Carpets can hide water damage for a long time especially if water has seeped into the underlay or subfloor. A damp carpet can feel cold and clammy underfoot and might have an unpleasant odour.

If you notice any dampness or water pooling after rain or suspect a hidden leak it’s best to get your carpets and flooring inspected. Persistent dampness can lead to structural damage and may reduce indoor air quality by increasing airborne mould spores by 200–500% compared to dry conditions.

7. Cracks or Sagging in Walls and Ceilings

A few tiny cracks here and there are normal as houses settle. But if you notice:

• Cracks widening over time
• Ceilings starting to sag
• Gaps forming around skirting boards or architraves

…it’s time to pay attention. These issues might mean water is weakening the structural parts of your home and that’s not something to ignore.

8. Rusty Pipes or Fixtures

Rusty plumbing fixtures, discoloured water stains around pipes or corrosion are signs your plumbing system may be compromised. When pipes rust they become weak and prone to leaks which can cause hidden water damage within walls and under floors.

If you notice any rust or damp patches near your plumbing it’s essential to have a plumber assess and repair the damage.

What to Do if You Spot These Signs

If any of these sound familiar don’t wait. Water damage rarely stays small; it spreads, gets worse and can lead to structural issues or expensive repairs if left too long.

Here’s what you can do:

• Try to find the source of the moisture
• If necessary turn off the water supply to prevent further damage
• Take photos of the affected areas in case you need to claim insurance
• Call in a plumber or water damage specialist to assess the situation

Act Early and Maintain to Protect Your Home

Water damage doesn’t always show up as a flooded room or a burst pipe. Often it’s a collection of subtle clues — a smell here, a mark there — that something’s not quite right.

Keep an eye out for these signs around your home especially during the wet months and you’ll be ahead of the game. Whether it’s a small leak behind a wall or moisture seeping in from outside catching it early means less hassle and lower costs down the track.

And if something doesn’t feel right trust your instincts — it’s always better to check than to wait and hope.