What is a common sign of a leak in the plumbing system?

A common sign of a leak in the plumbing system can indeed be increased water bills. When there is a leak in the system, whether it's a small drip or a large burst, water is being wasted, which typically results in higher consumption, reflected in your utility bill. Monitoring your water bills is a practical way to detect unusual usage patterns that might indicate a hidden leak. Detecting a leak early based on increased costs can help mitigate further damage and costly repairs down the line.

Other signs, such as wet spots on walls and ceilings, low water pressure, and unusual sounds from pipes, can also indicate leaks but are more situational and may not be as immediately evident to the homeowner as a spike in water bills. These other symptoms require more direct observation or experience to identify clearly. In contrast, an increased bill is a clear numerical indicator of potential issues that deserve further investigation.