How to Tell If You Have an Underground Water Leak on Your Property
- webteam1793
- May 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 2
An underground water leak is the kind of plumbing problem you don’t see coming—literally. Hidden beneath your yard, driveway, or foundation, these leaks can go undetected for weeks or even months while causing costly damage to your property and skyrocketing your water bill. The good news? There are clear signs to watch for, and the team at Parson Plumbing and Drains is here to help you spot and stop leaks before they get out of hand. Count on our experienced team to diagnose and address any issues you might experience related to an underground water leak in Columbus.
Common Signs of an Underground Water Leak
1. Unexplained Spike in Water Bill
If your water usage habits haven’t changed but your water bill has taken a noticeable jump, it could be a sign of water escaping from a pipe underground. A slow, steady leak can waste thousands of gallons of water over time.

2. Wet or Soggy Spots in the Yard
Patches of overly green grass or soggy, sunken areas in your lawn can be a red flag—especially during dry weather. Water from a leak underground may be pooling just beneath the surface and slowly saturating the soil.
3. Low Water Pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home may indicate that water is escaping the system before it ever reaches your faucets. While there could be other causes, underground leaks are a common culprit.
4. Cracks in Foundation or Driveway
Water leaking beneath concrete slabs or driveways can slowly erode the soil, causing cracks or shifting in the foundation. If you notice new or widening cracks, especially alongside other symptoms, it’s worth investigating further.
5. Sound of Running Water
If you hear the sound of water running when no taps are on and no appliances are running, it could be due to a hidden leak. Put your ear to the ground or your walls—an ongoing hiss or whooshing sound may be a clue.
6. Water Meter Test
Want a DIY way to check for a leak? Turn off all water inside and outside your home, then monitor your water meter. If the meter continues to move after everything is shut off, there’s a good chance water is leaking somewhere in your system.
What to Do If You Suspect a Leak

If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t wait—underground leaks can worsen over time, leading to property damage and expensive repairs. The best next step is to call a trusted local plumber with leak detection expertise.
At Parson Plumbing and Drains, we use advanced tools to locate underground leaks quickly and accurately, without unnecessary digging or guesswork. Our team will assess the situation, provide honest recommendations, and get your water system back on track with minimal disruption.
Protect Your Property with Professional Leak Detection
Water leaks can be sneaky—but they’re no match for the experienced pros at Parson Plumbing and Drains. If you’re in Central Ohio and suspect an underground leak, reach out to us today. We’ll help you find and fix the problem fast, before it leads to major headaches down the line.
Contact Parson Plumbing and Drains today for reliable leak detection and repair services.
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