- 1). Listen for dripping water within your walls and follow the sound to its source. A well pipe kept running during winter might cause a burst pipe. In some cases, the water might flood the basement floor.
- 2). Hold a paper towel under outdoor faucets and feel for moisture. Outdoor fixtures are more susceptible to freezing and leaks from burst pipes.
- 3). Examine crawlspaces and garages for telltale puddles on the ground or floor. Because these areas typically are not heated, they are prone to freezing pipes that can burst.
- 4). Run the faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms. A burst pipe could compromise the flow from these fixtures. Note if the water appears to run slowly, or not at all, or if the water takes a long time to heat up. If you need to run more water than you’re used to for hot showers, dishwashing and other tasks, this is a sign of a burst pipe.
- 5). Examine the ceilings where you suspect a burst pipe. Spilled water will form a stain on the ceiling’s surface. (Ref 3) A musty smell might accompany the stain. In extreme cases, the ceiling tile or drywall might crack, causing water to flood the floors below.
- 6). Locate the water meter outside your home. Open the meter and note if the dials are turning. If they are, the leak is likely to have generated on your property.