Left untreated, an improperly working bathroom can create a number of issues. At the very least, a leaky faucet or toilet will cause a hike in your water bill. But there are a host of other issues that you won’t be able to simply solve by writing a check.

Water Damage

If water is allowed to pool around wooden cabinetry or trim, it’s likely to cause water damage. Water damage is unsightly, not often reversible, and a clear sign to future residents that you’ve had plumbing issues.

Musty Smells

When moisture is allowed to build up, mold and mildew can appear and come with a not-so-appealing fragrance.

Tile Imperfections

If excess water gets in between your tiles, you run the risk of wood rot. That’s not only a problem in and of itself, but it could also affect the integrity of your bathroom tile work.

Soft Flooring

If your subfloor is made of plywood, it’s vulnerable to mold and rot. If leaks are allowed to persist, you might notice soft or spongy areas of your bathroom floor. Scarier still, you might especially notice it when sitting on the toilet.

Mold

As the name suggests, drywall shouldn’t be wet. A leaking toilet or faucet can lead to wet spots and mold along your walls. This is an issue to catch early, as drywall is costly and time-consuming to replace. And some mold, left unchecked, might lead to further issues. However, it takes 48 hours for mold to grow and just because it appears to look like mold does not mean that it’s actually live mold. Mold requires both water and glucose to live.

Bathroom leaks are an inconvenience, but they’re one that must be swiftly dealt with. The longer you delay, the greater the potential damage to your home.