Leaky tap? No big deal, right? Maybe. But what if that small drip is quietly pointing to a bigger issue hidden in the pipes?

Plumbing problems often start subtly. A slow drain here, a rattle there. Easy to ignore. Until suddenly, you’re dealing with a burst pipe, water damage, or an eye-watering water bill. Most major plumbing disasters come with warning signs. The key is knowing what to look for and acting before things spiral.

Let’s look at 9 clear red flags that suggest you shouldn’t DIY it. These are signs it’s time to call in a licensed professional.

1. Water pressure drops suddenly

Low water pressure throughout the house usually isn’t random. If you’ve always had a decent flow and it suddenly drops off, there’s likely something going on beneath the surface. It could be anything from a hidden leak to a broken pipe or a problem with the main supply line.

If it’s just one tap, you might be dealing with a clogged aerator. But if it’s the whole house? That’s not something you want to guess at. Instead, it’s time to look for the best plumbers Adelaide has to offer so you can get to the bottom of the problem.

2. Unexplained spike in your water bill

Your usage hasn’t changed, but your bill has shot up. That’s a big red flag.

Hidden leaks are often to blame. These can be behind walls, under floors, or in areas you don’t check regularly. Over time, even a slow leak can waste thousands of litres of water and rack up serious costs. Don’t assume it’s just “one of those months.” A pro can pinpoint the leak before it causes structural damage.

3. Gurgling sounds from drains

Drains shouldn’t talk back. If you’re hearing gurgles or glugging sounds from sinks, toilets, or showers, it usually means there’s air trapped in the system, often caused by a blockage or poor venting.

This can be an early sign that a clog is forming deep in your pipes. And if you ignore it, that minor noise can quickly lead to water backing up where it definitely shouldn’t.

4. Water stains or discoloured patches on walls or ceilings

If you spot any mysterious brownish stains or bubbling paint, don’t brush it off. That’s water. And it’s coming from somewhere it shouldn’t.

Sometimes the damage is caused by a slow, ongoing leak. Other times it’s the result of a one-off event that’s left moisture trapped in the walls or ceiling cavity. Either way, it’s not something you want to ignore. A qualified plumber can find the source, repair the damage, and help prevent mould growth or structural rot.

5. The smell of sewage indoors

This one’s hard to miss—and impossible to ignore. If you smell a sewage-like odour coming from your drains, sinks, or laundry, it could indicate a broken or blocked sewer line. It might also mean a dried-out trap or an issue with your venting system. The smell alone is unpleasant, but more importantly, sewer gases can be hazardous to your health. Don’t mask it with air freshener. This needs expert attention.

6. Consistently slow drains

A slow-draining sink or shower every now and then isn’t the end of the world. But if you find yourself reaching for the plunger or pouring drain cleaner down the pipes regularly, there’s a deeper problem brewing.

Multiple slow drains in the home usually point to a bigger blockage in the main line. And chemical drain cleaners? They might seem handy, but they can corrode your pipes over time. A plumber has the proper tools to clear the blockage without causing damage.

7. Visible rust or corrosion on pipes

If you’ve got exposed plumbing—like under the sink or in the laundry—take a closer look now and then. Signs of rust, green or white mineral build-up, or flaking metal can all mean your pipes are starting to fail. Corroded pipes are far more likely to leak or burst, especially if they’re older. Once metal starts deteriorating, it’s only a matter of time. Replacing sections before they fail is much cheaper than dealing with water damage later.

8. Rattling or banging noises in the pipes

Your plumbing shouldn’t sound like a drumline. Loud rattles, bangs, or thuds when you turn taps on or off could be what’s known as “water hammer.” It happens when water flow is suddenly forced to stop or change direction. If not fixed, the pressure can damage joints, valves, and fixtures.

Other causes might include loose mounting straps or poorly secured pipes. Either way, the noise is a warning. You shouldn’t hear your plumbing system in action.

9. You can’t get consistent hot water

One day your shower is scalding. The next, it’s lukewarm at best. If your hot water system can’t keep a steady temperature, or it runs out far too quickly, something’s not right.

It could be a failing thermostat, sediment build-up, or even a leak in the hot water line. Don’t wait for it to completely stop working. A professional can diagnose the issue before you’re left with nothing but cold showers.

Know When to Step Back

Not every plumbing issue means panic stations. But the signs above? They’re not ones to ignore or “wait and see.” What starts off as a small warning sign can quickly turn into expensive repairs if left unchecked.

Trying to fix major plumbing problems yourself can do more harm than good. You might accidentally damage the system further or create new problems entirely. And for anything involving gas lines, hot water systems, or sewer connections, it’s not just a risk—it’s illegal without the right qualifications.