Leak Detection & Repair

A hidden leak is a serious problem for Spokane property owners. Water escapes undetected, walls and flooring absorb damage, and bills climb, all before you can pinpoint the source. At Shaw Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we use modern detection tools that locate leaks accurately and minimize disruption to your property. We’ve served the Spokane Valley since 2015, and leak detection and repair is work we do every day.

If the situation is urgent, you don’t have to wait. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies, and for non-urgent calls we offer same-day scheduling whenever possible. Every job is backed by a warranty, so you have confidence in the work long after we’ve packed up.

We’re based near the north end of Spokane’s East Central neighborhood, between Gonzaga University and Spokane Community College, and we can reach homes and businesses throughout the area quickly.

Call (509) 954-5273 or contact us online today to get a free estimate. We offer weekend appointments for your convenience.

Warning Signs of a Hidden Leak in Your Home or Business

Some leaks make themselves known right away. Others work quietly for weeks or months before any visible damage appears. Knowing what to watch for can help you act before a small problem turns costly.

Common signs that may point to a hidden leak:

  • Unexplained water bill increases: A spike with no obvious cause is one of the earliest indicators that water is escaping somewhere in your system.
  • Running water sounds with no fixtures on: Hearing water move inside walls or under floors when everything is turned off warrants a closer look.
  • Damp spots, discoloration, or bubbling paint: Soft spots on floors, stained ceilings, or paint that’s bubbling or peeling often signal moisture intrusion behind surfaces.
  • Mold growth or musty odors: Persistent mold or a musty smell in areas that should stay dry frequently traces back to a concealed leak.
  • Low water pressure throughout the property: A sudden or gradual drop in pressure across multiple fixtures can indicate a leak in a main or supply line.
  • Seasonal pipe stress: Spokane’s freeze-thaw cycles put real stress on outdoor hose bibs, irrigation lines, and pipe joints. A seasonal inspection after winter is a practical step for local property owners.

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  • They were very knowledgeable, courteous and kind.
    "I highly recommend this company to anyone who needs work done and need it done right the first time!"
    - Dale B.
  • They were so friendly and professional, and didn't even charge us!!
    "It turned out we had accidentally turned it off, and wasn't broken after all."
    - Kristen H.
  • Will use again!
    "The work looks good and they have a warranty they stand behind."
    - Advanced Radon Technologies
  • Hopefully not soon, but will call again should we need help. Very good.
    "Our experience with Shaw and technician Clay Cottrell was excellent."
    - James D.
  • Thank you Shaw plumbing for providing such excellent service!
    "Shaw, plumbing heating and air hands-down, the friendliest group of trustworthy individuals that are highly skilled and motivated to do an excellent job."
    - Dougie B.
  • I was very pleased with his knowledge and expertise.
    "Jason did a great job and will be my go to guy if I need anything else. Highly recommend!"
    - Tim
  • They do great work and are very professional.
    "This is the third plumbing project that Shaw Plumbing has done."
    - Richard B.
  • The conversations with David were pressure-free and I trusted his advice.
    "We are very happy with the service provided by David and we will continue to seek him out for future projects."
    - Jacqueline S.

How We Locate & Repair Hidden Leaks

Finding a hidden leak without opening walls or pulling up floors takes the right tools. We use acoustic listening devices to detect the sound of water moving inside walls, thermal imaging to locate hidden moisture behind surfaces, and high-resolution video cameras to inspect sewer and water lines directly. Combining these methods lets us pinpoint a leak’s location accurately, so repairs are targeted rather than exploratory.

Once we’ve identified the source, we carry out efficient, long-lasting repairs. That may mean replacing a damaged pipe section, sealing a minor leak, or addressing a recurring problem in aging plumbing. Catching a leak early can limit the scope of repairs and reduce the risk of secondary damage such as mold growth, structural rot, or foundation erosion. Throughout the process, our goal is to keep disruption to your home or business to a minimum. Flexible financing options are also available to help you manage repair costs.

From first call to final cleanup, we strive to deliver excellent service with a focus on customer satisfaction. Call our Spokane office today at (509) 954-5273.

Where Leaks Commonly Occur in Spokane Plumbing Systems

Leaks don’t always start where you’d think to look. Understanding the most common failure points helps property owners recognize why some problems stay hidden until they’ve already caused damage and what professional leak detection actually covers.

Behind Walls & Under Floors

Pipes routed through wall cavities and beneath flooring are among the most frequent locations for hidden leaks. Because they’re not visible during routine inspection, these leaks can go undetected for an extended period while quietly damaging surrounding materials.

Slab Leaks

When pipes running beneath a concrete foundation crack or corrode, the result is a slab leak. Left untreated, slab leaks can weaken a foundation and cause significant structural damage over time. Thermal imaging and acoustic tools are particularly effective at locating these leaks without unnecessary demolition.

Supply Lines, Shut-Off Valves & Fittings

Supply lines and shut-off valves under sinks and behind appliances are frequent failure points, particularly in older installations. Pipe joints and fittings are also vulnerable to loosening and corrosion, especially in properties with older plumbing materials.

Outdoor Lines & Hose Bibs

Spokane’s freeze-thaw cycles stress outdoor hose bibs and service lines seasonally, making fittings and connections more prone to cracking or loosening. Irrigation lines and exterior connections are worth inspecting after each winter.

Water Heater Connections

Inlet and outlet connections at the water heater are a common source of slow leaks. These often go unnoticed until rust staining or visible water damage makes the problem apparent.

Underground Sewer & Water Main Lines

Leaks in underground sewer or water main lines may first appear as wet patches in a yard, unexplained drops in water pressure, or elevated bills well before any interior damage becomes visible. Video pipe inspection is a reliable way to assess these lines without excavation.