Leaking Pipe in Wall? Here's What It’ll Cost to Fix in Adelaide

Discovering a leaking pipe inside your wall can be stressful and expensive if left unattended. In older Adelaide homes with dated plumbing infrastructure, leaking pipes are especially common. 

Whether it’s a slow drip or a burst pipe causing water damage, early intervention is key. But what does it actually cost to repair a leaking pipe in the wall?

Let’s break down the typical costs, what influences the price, and how Adelaide homeowners can keep expenses under control.

Average Cost to Repair a Leaking Pipe in a Wall

On average, Adelaide homeowners can expect to pay between $200 and $1,200 to repair a leaking pipe inside a wall. However, this range depends on several factors, including the location of the leak, accessibility, the type of piping, and whether water damage repair is also required.

Here’s a quick cost breakdown:

What Affects the Cost? 4 Things to Look Out For

1. Accessibility of the Pipe

The biggest factor is whether the leaking pipe is easily accessible. If it’s located behind a bathroom wall or under kitchen cabinetry, your plumber may need to cut into plasterboard, tiles, or even concrete. More invasive work = higher labour and repair costs.

2. Type of Pipe Material

Older homes in Adelaide may still have copper or galvanised steel pipes, which are harder (and more expensive) to repair or replace. Newer homes often use PEX or PVC, which are cheaper to work with and easier to repair.

3. Extent of the Damage

A small pinhole leak is relatively simple to patch. But if the pipe has burst or has been leaking for a while, there may be mould, wood rot, or water damage to plaster, flooring, and cabinetry. Remediation costs can significantly increase your total bill.

4. Time of Service

Need a plumber at 11pm on a Saturday? Expect to pay an after-hours surcharge. In Adelaide, emergency plumbing call-outs usually cost $150–$300 more than regular business hours, depending on your plumber's rate.

In an emergency, every second counts. That’s why at Level Adelaide, we guarantee to be onsite within 30 minutes, or we’ll give you a $100 credit toward your repair.

Signs You Might Have a Leaking Pipe Inside the Wall

Not sure if you’ve got a hidden leak? Here are some tell-tale signs to look out for:

• Damp or discoloured patches on your walls or ceilings
  

• Musty smells (a sign of mould growth)
  

• Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
  

• An unexplained increase in your water bill
  

• Dripping sounds inside the walls, even when taps are off
  
  

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. Delaying repairs can lead to structural damage and health issues due to mould.

Can You DIY a Leaking Wall Pipe?

While it's tempting to fix small leaks yourself, wall plumbing repairs should always be left to licensed plumbers.

DIY attempts can make things worse, void insurance claims, or lead to fines if work isn't compliant with SA Water or building codes. Professional plumbers at Level Adelaide can locate the leak with minimal disruption using advanced leak detection tools and thermal imaging, reducing overall repair time and cost.

What’s Included in a Professional Repair From Level Adelaide?

When you hire a licensed Level Adelaide plumber, here’s what’s included:

• Leak detection using specialised equipment
  

• Isolation of the problem area
  

• Cutting and removing the damaged section of pipe
  

• Installing new pipe or fittings
  

• Pressure testing and confirming repair integrity
  

• Repairing wall surface (optional or referred to a plasterer)
  

Free Smart Plumbing Health Check

In addition to these services, we also offer a complimentary plumbing health check for new customers. We’ll inspect key areas of your system and provide practical, preventative advice—no strings attached.

How to Save Money on Pipe Repairs

• Act early – Catch leaks before they cause significant water damage.
  

• Book during business hours – Avoid after-hours call-out fees.
  

• Bundle repairs – If you’ve got multiple plumbing issues, fix them in one visit. Spacing out repairs could make minor issues develop into bigger problems.
  

• Get a detailed quote – Ask for a breakdown of labour, materials, and restoration work.

• Check insurance coverage – Some home insurance policies cover damage caused by hidden leaks (but not the plumbing itself).