3 Early Warning Signs of a Broken Pipe in Your Chicagoland Home or Business

Why Broken Pipes Can Be So Destructive

Plumbing problems aren’t always dramatic. Some broken pipes gush water. Others quietly leak behind walls or under floors, causing hidden water damage, mold growth, and long-term structural problems.

The key to avoiding costly repairs is early detection. Below are the three most common warning signs of a broken or damaged pipe—and what to do if you notice them.

1. Unusual Sounds From Your Plumbing

Do you hear whistling, hissing, or banging when using your faucets?

These sounds often signal:

• A dent in the pipe that’s restricting water flow
• A failing pressure-reducing valve
• Air in the line caused by cracks or leaks

Over time, the increased pressure can lead to a full pipe burst. If you’re hearing odd noises consistently — especially behind walls or below floors — call a licensed plumber immediately, then have your property evaluated for water intrusion.

2. Foul or Unusual Odors Indoors

If you’re smelling sewage, sulfur, or mildew, your plumbing system may be compromised.

One likely culprit is the p-trap, the U-shaped pipe under your sink. When functioning properly, it holds water that blocks sewer gases from entering your home. But if the p-trap dries out or leaks due to damage, those odors escape into your home or office.

Other signs of a pipe problem:

• Persistent musty smells, especially near floors or baseboards
• A bathroom or basement that smells like rotten eggs or standing sewage
• Unexplained odors near drains or plumbing access panels

These smells can indicate a sanitary hazard, not just a nuisance. Call a plumber right away, and follow up with professional water damage restoration if there’s been seepage or backup.

3. Unexplained Water, Stains, or High Water Bills

Have you noticed:

• Puddles forming in the same area repeatedly?
• Water stains appearing on ceilings, walls, or flooring?
• A sudden spike in your water bill without increased use?

These are red flags that a pipe has broken, cracked, or sprung a hidden leak. Other causes may include:

• Aging underground pipes connecting to your home
• Tree root intrusion
• Shifting soil or foundation settling

Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time and cause significant damage to drywall, wood flooring, carpet, and subflooring.

What to Do If You Suspect a Broken Pipe

1. Turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding.
2. Call a licensed plumber to assess and repair the pipe.
3. Document the damage for your insurance provider.
4. Contact ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons for immediate water damage restoration and drying.

Why Professional Water Damage Restoration Matters

Even if the leak is fixed, moisture can linger in building materials, creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. That’s why water damage restoration isn’t optional — it’s urgent.

At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we use industrial-grade drying equipment and thermal imaging to:

• Detect hidden moisture
• Prevent mold growth
• Dry and sanitize affected areas
• Restore peace of mind

Our IICRC-certified team responds 24/7 throughout Chicago, the North Shore, Oak Park, River Forest, and surrounding suburbs.

Our Services

We provide expert restoration and cleaning services across the Chicagoland area:

Residential Services

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Specialty Cleaning Services

Commercial Services

• Commercial Water Damage Cleanup
• Commercial Fire Restoration
• Commercial Mold Removal
• Reconstruction & Build-Back Services

Areas We Serve

We proudly serve residential and commercial clients in:

• City of Chicago: Lincoln Park, West Loop, Hyde Park, Wicker Park, Gold Coast
• North Shore: Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff
• West/Northwest Suburbs: Oak Park, River Forest, Skokie, Glenview, Northbrook, Deerfield

Featured Resource

RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset
Written by IICRC Master Restorer Sam Simon, this practical guidebook teaches homeowners how to prepare for and recover from fire, water, and mold damage.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a family-owned and award-winning disaster restoration firm based in Chicago. With over 40 years of local service, we are an IICRC Certified Firm, proud members of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA), and recipients of:

• The BBB Torch Award for Ethics
• The Stevie® Award for Business Excellence
• Skokie Business of the Year – Honorable Mention

Co-owned by Sam Simon, IICRC Master Fire & Water Restorer, and Nasutsa Mabwa, a nationally recognized business leader.

📞 Call 773-376-1110 or Request Help Online

Let us restore your peace of mind.