Base Leak Caught Before Subfloor Damage
"Looks like there is a leak around the base of the toilet. I only see water behind it." Homeowner thought it was a minor issue and almost waited a few weeks.
Failed wax ring with early moisture in the subfloor — the plywood was damp but had not started to rot yet. Caught it right at the point where waiting would have turned it into a subfloor replacement.
Pulled the toilet, replaced the wax ring, cleaned and dried the flange area, confirmed the subfloor was still sound, and reset the toilet with new bolts. Showed the homeowner the moisture so they understood why we recommend not waiting on base leaks.