Yeah, the water meter trick is solid—people overlook it way too often. I agree on the moisture meters; they’re hit or miss, especially if you don’t know how to calibrate them right. One thing I’d add: check under sinks and around toilets for soft spots or discoloration. Even a tiny bit of bubbling paint can mean trouble. And trust your nose—musty smells usually mean moisture somewhere it shouldn’t be. Don’t overthink every cold spot with those cameras, though... sometimes it’s just bad insulation, not a leak.
I get what you’re saying about not overthinking cold spots, but I actually found my first leak that way. The infrared camera picked up a weird chill behind a wall in the laundry room, and sure enough, there was a slow drip from an old pipe. Maybe it’s not always a leak, but I’d rather check twice than miss something expensive. Sometimes those tools are worth the hassle, even if it’s just for peace of mind.
I totally get where you're coming from—it’s easy to dismiss those cold spots as nothing, but sometimes they really do point to a problem. I had this weird draft by my kitchen baseboards that bugged me for months. Turned out it wasn’t a leak, just some old insulation letting in cold air, but honestly, I was glad I checked. Peace of mind is worth a lot, especially when repairs can get expensive fast.
Infrared cameras are a bit of an investment, but if you can borrow one or rent it for a day, it’s not a bad idea. Honestly, I’d rather spend a little up front than risk mold or water damage down the line... That stuff is no joke. Plus, even if it’s just for reassurance, knowing what’s going on behind the walls helps me sleep better at night. Sometimes being cautious pays off more than we think.
