Who To Call When There’s a Leak in a Wall

If you notice a damp spot on your wall, a musty smell that lingers, or see paint bubbling or wallpaper peeling, it may indicate a water leak. Finding a wall water leak can be concerning, and many homeowners need clarification on the next steps. 

Should you reach out to a plumber, a restoration company, or another professional? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of addressing wall water leaks and help you determine the right experts to call.

Identifying the Problem

Before understanding who to call for a water leak in your wall, it’s important to know if a water problem is present behind your walls.

Some common red flags include the following: 

• Stains or discoloration on walls or ceilings
• Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper (even in areas that don’t typically get wet)
• A persistent, musty odor
• Mold spots on wall surfaces.
• Damp patches that feel wet to the touch 
• Walls that are soft, spongy, or warped when pressed

These issues might seem minor initially, but they can quickly lead to significant problems like mold, structural damage, or even electrical hazards. Acting swiftly and getting help as soon as possible not only minimizes damage but also helps protect your home and family’s well-being. 

Who To Call for a Water Leak in the Wall First: Professional Plumbers

So you’ve spotted the signs of a wall water leak — what’s next? If you notice a spreading damp patch on your wall or water dripping from an unexpected spot, your first call should usually be to a professional plumber. 

Plumbers are trained to identify and fix the source of the leak, whether it’s a cracked pipe, a faulty joint, or corrosion in your plumbing system. They can handle various issues, like the following: 

• Fixing or replacing damaged pipes 
• Repairing leaks around fittings and joints 
• Addressing water pressure problems that may lead to burst pipes. 

Calling a plumber first ensures the root cause is addressed, helping prevent further damage to your home and its costly repairs. 

When To Call a Restoration Company

After addressing the source of a wall leak with a plumber, it’s beneficial to contact a professional restoration company to handle the resulting water damage. 

Restoration companies go far beyond cleaning up the mess. With their training and expertise, water damage restoration companies can help you with the following: 

• Water Removal and Drying: Restoration professionals use advanced equipment to remove standing water and dry affected areas, preventing further issues like mold growth and structural damage. 
• Mold Remediation: If moisture has already led to mold development, these experts can also assess the extent of the contamination, remove mold, and treat surfaces. This not only prevents recurrence but also safeguards your health and property. 
• Repairing Damaged Materials: Beyond cleanup, restoration companies repair or replace damaged structural elements, such as drywall, insulation, and flooring, ensuring your home is fully restored. 

When dealing with the aftermath of a wall water leak, partnering with a full-service restoration company like Restoration 1 can make all the difference. With expertise in water extraction, drying, mold remediation, and structural repairs, we’re ready to handle all your water-related issues efficiently. Our comprehensive solutions ensure your home is thoroughly restored without the hassle of coordinating with multiple contractors. 

Optional Step: Hire Leak Detection Services

Sometimes, leaks can be elusive, hiding behind walls where they aren’t immediately visible. In these cases, a leak detection company can be helpful. You might consider calling one if you experience any of the following: 

• A sudden spike in your water bill with no clear explanation 
• A sound of running water even when all fixtures are off
• Musty smells or persistent dampness that seem to have no obvious source
• Unusual warm spots on your floor (often a sign of a hot water pipe leak) 
• Cracks in walls or flooring (which may signal long-term moisture damage) 

What makes leak detection companies different from other professionals is their ability to find hidden problems with precision and minimal disruption. They use high-tech tools like acoustic listening devices to pick up subtle sounds of escaping water. Infrared cameras are another essential tool, as they help identify temperature variations that signal moisture buildup behind walls. 

With these technologies, professionals can pinpoint issues quickly and accurately, especially when the leak source isn’t obvious but requires prompt attention. 

Practical Tips for Homeowners Dealing With Wall Water Leaks

Discovering water leaks on the wall can be stressful, but taking the proper steps early on can help minimize damage and make the repair process smoother. 

Manage the situation effectively with these practical tips: 

• Turn Off the Water Supply. Shut off the main water valve to keep the leak from causing further damage. This simple step can prevent an even bigger mess. 
• Document the Damage. Take photos or videos of the affected area to provide evidence for your insurance claim. 
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurer as soon as possible to understand your coverage and start the claims process. They can guide you through the next steps and provide the necessary documentation.
• Remove Affected Items: Move furniture, electronics, and other belongings away from the leak to protect them from water damage and make room for cleanup efforts. 
• Avoid DIY Repairs: Resist the urge to patch things up yourself. Wall leaks often have hidden complexities that require professional expertise. 

By staying calm and following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle the situation and set your home on the path to recovery. 

Take the Right Steps To Protect Your Home From Water Damage

Handling a wall water leak doesn’t have to feel overwhelming if you take the right steps. Start by calling a plumber to fix the source of the leak, then contact a restoration company to handle any resulting damage. Remember, acting quickly can make all the difference in minimizing the impact of a wall water leak. 

Don’t let a wall water leak cause unnecessary stress or damage. Restoration 1 offers the expertise and tools to tackle water damage head-on, from thorough cleanup to complete repairs. Let our team handle the hard work so you can focus on returning to normal. Contact us to get started.