We’ve talked about everyday plumbing habits in Part 2 and how aging pipes eventually need replacing in this post. But what about the in-between?

What if your plumbing looks fine — but something feels a little off?

In Singapore homes, damage often begins quietly. By the time you see a leak or hear strange noises, it could already be a sign of deeper issues behind your walls or under your floors.

Here’s how to catch those early warnings before they turn into an emergency.

1. 💧 Dripping Taps That Don’t Stop

A faucet that keeps dripping — even after you’ve replaced the washer — could mean pressure imbalance, valve damage, or pipe corrosion.

🚩 Don’t ignore if:

• The drip gets faster over time
• It happens in multiple taps across the house
• There’s discolouration or rust in the water

2. 🧱 Damp or Swollen Walls

If a wall feels soft, starts to bubble, or shows signs of mold, water could be leaking inside it.

This is especially common in:

• Shared toilet/kitchen walls in HDB flats
• Pipes concealed inside false ceilings or cabinetry

🔧 Tip: In Singapore’s humid climate, mold can grow fast — don’t just repaint. Call a plumber to inspect the source.

3. 🚿 Sudden Drop in Water Pressure

Temporary pressure dips can happen during building maintenance or water tank cleaning. But if it becomes a pattern, something’s wrong.

It could be:

• Internal pipe blockages
• Corrosion in older pipes
• Leaks that reduce water flow

Check with neighbours first — if it’s only happening in your unit, you need a plumbing check.

4. 🛠 Rust, Discoloration, or Bits in the Water

Seeing brown, orange, or cloudy water? That’s your plumbing talking. It’s often caused by internal rust or sediment buildup in aging pipes.

Especially common in:

• Older landed homes
• Pre-renovation HDB flats
• Units with galvanised iron piping

Call a licensed plumber to flush your system or inspect for replacement.

5. 🌊 Rising Water Bills (Without Increased Usage)

If your PUB water bill suddenly spikes, but your usage hasn’t changed, a hidden leak might be the culprit.

Try this:

• Turn off all taps and water appliances.
• If your water meter still spins — you’ve got a leak somewhere.

📞 Pro Tip: Some plumbing companies offer leak detection services using sound or pressure testing tools.

When to Call the Pros

Here’s a quick breakdown:

🔚 Final Thoughts

Plumbing problems rarely go away on their own. In fact, the longer you wait, the more damage they can cause — from structural issues to expensive repairs.

By staying alert to these early warning signs, you’ll be protecting your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

Up next in our Plumbing Smarts 101: Singapore Edition, we’ll explore what actually happens during a professional pipe inspection in Singapore — and why it’s worth doing even before trouble starts.