Signs of Water Damage in Your Home: A Checklist

Most water damage doesn't start with a flood. It starts with a smell, a stain, or a floorboard that feels a little different. Use this checklist to spot the early signs. If you check more than one box, or you're just not sure, a water damage inspection will tell you what's going on. Master Restoration inspects homes in Charlotte, Concord, Indian Trail, Matthews, Monroe, Stallings and Waxhaw.

Signs You Can Smell

• A musty, earthy smell in one room or corner that doesn't go away when you air it out
• A smell that's strongest low, near the floor or baseboards, or inside a sink cabinet

Signs on Walls and Ceilings

• Yellow, brown or dark rings or patches
• Paint that bubbles, peels or cracks; wallpaper that lifts
• Drywall that feels soft, bulges or sags
• Stains that come back after you paint over them (see our ceiling water stain guide)

Signs on Floors

• Hardwood that cups, crowns or buckles; laminate that swells at the seams
• Soft or spongy spots, especially near the tub, toilet, dishwasher or fridge
• Carpet that's damp or smells, or tile that's loose or has cracked grout

Signs Under Sinks and Around Appliances

• A swollen, soft or stained cabinet floor under the kitchen or bathroom sink (see what to do about a leak under the sink)
• Rust or mineral rings on the water heater, washer hoses or supply valves
• Water stains on the floor in front of the dishwasher or fridge

Signs on Your Water Bill

• A higher bill with no change in how you use water
• The meter test: turn off every faucet, toilet, appliance and irrigation zone. Then watch the meter's leak indicator for about 15 minutes. If it moves, water is going somewhere.

Signs Outside and in the Crawlspace

• Gutters that overflow, or downspouts that dump water against the foundation
• Standing water or damp insulation in the crawlspace after rain (see stormwater removal)

Found a Sign? What to Do Next

1. If you can see the source, shut off the water at the fixture or the main.
2. Take photos before you clean or move anything.
3. Don't paint over stains or close up wet areas.
4. Book an inspection. We find the source, measure how far the moisture spread, and lay out a clear plan. You'll get photos and notes you can use with your insurer.

When the area is dry, our water damage repair team can put things back together. For coverage questions, see our water damage insurance help page. Haven't filed a claim yet? We offer a free inspection before you file, so you know what you're dealing with when you talk to your insurer.

Master Restoration serves homeowners in Charlotte, Concord, Indian Trail, Matthews, Monroe, Stallings, and Waxhaw. See all the North Carolina areas we serve for more.