LEAK DETECTION

Water spots on the ceiling, a mysteriously high water bill, or pooling water where it shouldn’t be — hidden leaks cause real damage when left unchecked. Our master plumbers use advanced detection methods to pinpoint the source quickly, then fix it right. Serving Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Littleton, Castle Pines & Centennial.

Think You Might Have a Leak?

Hidden leaks aren’t always obvious. Here are the most common signs homeowners notice — and what they usually mean.

  • Water Spot on the Ceiling – Ceiling stains usually come from plumbing or fixtures directly above — but not always. Water can travel along pipes and joists before dripping, so the source may not be directly above the stain.
  • Unexplained High Water Bill – High water bills almost always mean water is leaving your system somewhere it shouldn’t be. Running toilets are the most common cause — other culprits include dripping faucets, leaking hose bibs, and small leaks inside walls.

  • Water Around Your Water Heater – Pooling water near a water heater could come from the temperature and pressure relief valve, corroded fittings, condensation, or a cracked internal tank — don’t ignore it!
  • Wet Area Under the Sink – Moisture under the sink typically comes from supply connections, drain fittings, or the faucet itself.

LOCAL RESOURCES

Water District Emergency Contacts

If you see water leaking from a meter, a water main in the street, or a common area — contact your water district directly. They handle meter and main repairs. Homeowners are responsible for all plumbing between the meter and the home, including the service line, indoor plumbing, and irrigation.

303-791-2185

Responsible for meters and public mains. Homeowner handles service line from curb stop to home, indoor plumbing, and irrigation.

303-790-4830

Serves Centennial and surrounding areas. May offer bill credits for uncontrollable water loss with proof of repair.

303-841-4627

Responsible for meters and public mains. Homeowner handles service line from curb stop to home, indoor plumbing, and irrigation.

303-893-2444

Serves Parker and Castle Pines areas. Report leaks on mains and meters to the district.

Your Simple 3 – Step Plan

Here’s What Will Happen When You Book

No guesswork, no run around.  We make the process clear and stress-free.

Diagnose

We inspect the area, check your water meter, test fixtures, and use professional detection methods to pinpoint the exact source of the leak — even behind walls and under floors.

Explain

Once we’ve found it, we show you the problem and explain your options with clear, upfront pricing. No jargon, no pressure, no upselling work you don’t need.

Repair

Most repairs are completed the same day. If the issue is something other than plumbing — like a failed shower pan — we’ll tell you honestly so you get the right fix.

Leaking Pipes FAQ

The most reliable method is to check your water meter. Turn off all water use in the home, then watch the meter’s flow indicator (a small triangle or star-shaped dial). If it’s still moving, you have an active leak. Other signs include unexplained high water bills, the sound of running water when nothing is on, warm spots on floors, musty odors, or damp and discolored walls.

Start by checking your toilets — they’re the most common cause of silent water waste. Use the food coloring test: add drops to the tank and wait 20 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, it’s leaking. Then check all faucets, supply connections, hose bibs, and your water meter using the steps described in our homeowner tips above. If you still can’t find the source, call us. The leak may be underground or inside a wall where it’s not visible.

Go to your main water shutoff valve (usually in the basement near the water meter) and turn it off immediately. This stops all water flow into your home. Then call us at 303-346-8426. We offer same-day service for urgent leak situations. If the leak is at or before the meter, also contact your water district to shut off the curb stop valve.

In most South Metro water districts, the homeowner is responsible for the entire service line from the curb stop (the valve near the street) all the way into the home — including the pipe underground in your yard. The water district handles the meter and the public main. If you have a service line leak, you’ll typically see reduced water pressure, saturated soil in the yard, or soil sinking above the leak. Call us and we can coordinate repair.

Usually, but not always. Ceiling stains are most often caused by plumbing fixtures or pipes above — a leaking shower valve, a toilet that seeps during flushing, a washing machine connection, or a drain that leaks when running. However, the source can also be a roof leak, HVAC condensation, or ice dam damage. Our plumbers can rule plumbing in or out and point you to the right specialist if it’s not plumbing.

Don’t Wait for a Small Leak to Become a Big Problem

Schedule with Southside Plumbing today.