A musty odor or moldy smell is a common sign that there is water damage. The smell is often strongest in the area where the water damage initially occurred, but can easily spread throughout the building. Musty smells typically mean there is mold growth present, and mold is very dangerous. If you notice a new smell, or the smell becomes stronger, do not wait to get it checked. 

If you can see mold growth, then there is absolutely water where it should not be. Mold thrives where there is a consistent source of moisture, so areas that remain damp for extended periods of time will begin to grow mold. Mold may appear black, blue, green, or gray, and often looks fuzzy. Mold often grows in places we cannot see (which is why hidden water damage is so important to find), and can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, along floorboards, in attics, really anywhere. Mold poses serious health threats if inhaled or ingested, and should be handled immediately by trained professionals. 

Stains and discoloration are also signs of potential water damage. Most water stains will appear as a yellowish-brown color, and will expand into shapes with irregular borders. Typically, water stains on the walls and ceiling indicate a slow and consistent leak, and can typically be traced to a plumbing fixture or pipe. If you noticed discolored spots in your commercial building, get them checked for water damage.

There are many different things to look for in the walls, floors, and ceilings of our office buildings when inspecting for water damage. Here are some of the most obvious signs of hidden water damage in the structural elements of our commercial buildings: 

Look for any changes in your walls, floors, and ceilings, and be sure to get any suspicious or changing areas checked for hidden water damage.

A sudden, unexplained increase in your water usage or water bill could be another sign of hidden water damage. Review your bill every month in comparison with prior bills.  There will be some months where water usage increases or decreases depending on work schedules, however, a sudden spike could mean there is a bigger issue. Make sure that appliances that use water are not running water when they are not in use, and check visible pipes for any possible leaks. If there is a sudden increase in your water usage that you cannot explain, look for the above signs for hidden water damage.