Quick Answer:

If turning an outdoor spigot on makes water appear on basement pipes or walls, shut off the spigot and the nearest interior shutoff, then inspect the basement for wet spots. Trace where the moisture is coming from and stop using the spigot until you know whether the leak is a frozen/cracked pipe, a backflow issue, or a spigot connection inside a wall.

Why This Happens

• Frost or cold can freeze the spigot or supply pipe, then cause a crack that shows up farther inside the house when it thaws.
• If a hose or spigot has a check-valve problem, pressure can force water back toward interior pipes — this is sometimes described as when the spigot backs water into the house.
• Some spigots run through wall cavities. A leak at that connection can drip into framing and piping, effectively creating a situation where the spigot leaks inside the wall.
• Loose fittings, a failed shutoff, or damage to the supply line where it passes through the foundation can also route water into the basement.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Stop the flow and protect the area

• Turn the outdoor spigot off immediately.
• If there is an interior shutoff for the spigot, close that valve. If not, turn off the main water until you can locate the problem.
• Move furniture, boxes, and rugs away from wet areas to limit damage.

2. Operate the spigot while watching basement pipes

• With a helper, slowly open the outdoor spigot while someone watches the basement for drips or new wet areas. This helps confirm that the spigot operation correlates with the leak.
• Listen for running water, and feel along exposed pipe joints and fittings for wetness.

3. Trace wet spots

• Follow the trail of water: check the floor, wall bases, pipe runs, and any insulation. Look higher along the wall and under sill plates if the leak has been ongoing.
• Use a flashlight to look into cavities and behind pipes; damp framing often shows darker wood or mineral staining.
• Mark or photograph the wet areas to monitor whether they get worse after further tests.

4. Isolate the cause

• If the leak appears at a fitting or the spigot connection, tighten the accessible fittings gently and re-test. Do not force corroded fittings.
• If the leak tracks from inside a wall or foundation penetration, do not cut into the wall until you know if a simple exterior repair or interior shutoff will stop it.

5. Dry and document

• Remove standing water with towels and a wet/dry vacuum. Place a bucket under active drips if needed.
• Document the damage with photos and notes for insurance or a plumber.

6. Temporary fixes and next steps

• For a broken spigot you can’t immediately replace, shut the interior shutoff or main water and leave the spigot closed until repair.
• If you must run water outdoors, use a different outlet or a portable supply while repairs are scheduled.

What Not to Do

• Do not drywall over wet framing. That traps moisture, promotes rot and mold, and hides the problem from later inspection.
• Do not ignore a persistent leak because small drips can cause structural and mold damage over time.
• Do not try major cutting or soldering on pressurized lines without shutting off the water and, if required, the power to any nearby electrical systems.

When to Call a Professional

• Call a licensed plumber if you cannot locate the leak, if the leak continues when fixtures are off, or if you find a cracked pipe or failed connection.
• Contact a contractor or restoration specialist if there is widespread wet framing, insulation saturation, or evidence of mold growth.
• If water is near electrical panels or outlets, call an electrician after shutting off the water and power to the affected area.

Safety Notes

• Avoid working around standing water near electrical components. If in doubt, shut off power to the affected area before doing interior checks.
• Wear gloves and eye protection when inspecting moldy or dirty wet areas.
• Do not use open flame or heat on wet framing or near plumbing. Drying should be done with fans and dehumidifiers or by professionals.

Common Homeowner Questions

• Will this cause major structural damage?
  Minor leaks may be repairable with limited damage, but prolonged or hidden leaks can cause rot and require structural repair.
• How can I test if the spigot is frost-free or damaged?
  Open and close the spigot while watching the basement pipes and connections; if water appears only when the spigot is used, the spigot or its connection may be failing.
• How long before I can repair drywall over the area?
  Only repair drywall after framing and insulation are completely dry and any mold or damage has been fixed — have a professional confirm dryness before closing walls.