Signs Your Shower Is Leaking (And What To Do Next Before It Gets Worse)

How Can You Tell If Your Shower Is Leaking?

Most shower leaks begin quietly — a faint smell, a hairline crack, or dampness in an unexpected spot. However, those early warning signs often hide deeper water damage developing out of sight.

Recognising the signs your shower is leaking early can save you thousands in repairs, protect your home’s structure, and prevent mould infestations. In this guide, we outline the key indicators, explain why urgency matters, and show you how most leaks can be repaired quickly — without needing to remove tiles.

Top Signs Your Shower Might Be Leaking

1. Cracked or Missing Grout

Water infiltrates tiny cracks, flowing behind tiles and soaking into walls. Grout failure is one of the most common causes of shower leaks — and an early indicator of hidden damage.

2. Persistent Mould or Mildew

Mould returning even after cleaning suggests moisture trapped behind the tiles or walls. Mould thrives where water lingers, especially when ventilation alone cannot resolve the problem.

3. Damp or Musty Smell

If your bathroom smells musty despite regular cleaning and ventilation, it could signal moisture buildup behind walls or flooring — a clear red flag for a slow leak.

4. Peeling Paint or Bubbling Plaster

When moisture creeps behind walls adjacent to the shower, paint and plaster begin to bubble, blister, or peel. This cosmetic damage often precedes far worse structural deterioration.

5. Loose or Hollow-Sounding Tiles

Gently tap your tiles. A hollow sound or slight movement indicates that water may have compromised the adhesive, allowing moisture to settle behind the surface.

6. Water Stains on Ceilings or Adjoining Rooms

Especially common in multi-storey homes and apartments, water can travel vertically through walls and ceilings. Look for stains, bubbling paint, or discolouration.

7. Water Pooling Outside the Shower

If puddles appear despite normal drainage and there is no obvious tiling issue, it may point to failed waterproofing or broken seals — both of which allow water to escape unseen.

What To Do Next (Before It Gets Worse)

✅ Do Not Ignore It

Don’t ignore small shower leaks. This will often cause massive damage over time. Early intervention keeps repair costs low and prevents larger issues like timber rot, subfloor collapse, and serious mould infestations.

✅ Inspect Grout and Sealant Carefully

Check all visible joints and edges around the shower for cracks, crumbling, or missing material. These are common failure points for water ingress.

✅ Minimise Shower Use

Until a professional assessment confirms the source and extent of the leak, limit use to reduce water exposure and prevent escalation.

✅ Book a Professional Leak Inspection

Specialist technicians can accurately diagnose the leak without damaging your shower. Early inspections often allow repairs without removing tiles, using resealing and regrouting methods.

Can a Leaking Shower Be Fixed Without Removing Tiles?

In most cases, yes. If grout, sealant, or minor substrate issues are to blame, professional resealing can resolve the leak without expensive, disruptive renovations.

By addressing the root cause early, you can extend your shower’s lifespan, protect your property value, and avoid full bathroom rebuilds.
Want to learn more?
How We Fix Leaking Showers Without Removing Tiles

Why Choose Leaking Showers Sealed?

At Leaking Showers Sealed, we specialise in non-invasive, no-tile-removal shower repairs. Our expert team uses proven methods to reseal, waterproof, and protect your bathroom — fast, cleanly, and affordably.
Our difference:

• No demolition
• Same-day repairs in many cases
• Long-lasting grout and sealant systems
• Trusted by hundreds of Australian homeowners
• Industry-backed guarantees

If you suspect a leak, the worst thing you can do is wait.
Book your FREE inspection today at LeakingShowersSealed.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How do I know if my shower is leaking behind the tiles?
Signs include persistent mould, musty smells, cracked grout, and hollow-sounding tiles. Dampness in adjoining rooms or ceilings below also suggests hidden leaks.

Q2. Can I fix a leaking shower without renovating?
Yes. If caught early, resealing and professional grouting services can resolve leaks without needing to remove tiles or rebuild the bathroom.

Q3. What happens if I ignore a leaking shower?
Ignoring it can lead to structural damage, expensive repairs, mould infestation, and denied insurance claims. Early action always costs less than delayed repairs.

Q4. How much does it cost to reseal a leaking shower?
Professional resealing typically costs between $300 and $1,200 depending on the extent of the damage — far less than full renovations or structural rebuilds.

Q5. How quickly should I act after spotting a leak?
Immediately. Every day the leak continues increases the risk of serious damage to your home’s structure and internal finishes.