METHOD 01
Acoustic listening
Sensitive listening devices can help identify sound patterns associated with escaping water. Background noise and pipe material affect results.
Services & technology
Slab Leak Services & Detection Technology
Learn how common detection tools work, compare repair approaches and prepare useful questions before approving plumbing work.
✓ Clear next steps
⌖ San Antonio area
◈ Evidence-led guidance
Technology should support a diagnosis
Different tools answer different questions. Ask what each test can show and what its limitations are.
METHOD 02
Thermal imaging
Infrared cameras show surface temperature patterns; they do not directly see water through every floor and require careful interpretation.
METHOD 03
Pressure and isolation tests
Controlled tests may help determine whether a plumbing line loses pressure. The procedure should be explained before testing.
Compare repair methods
There is no single best method for every home. Ask for the evidence, trade-offs and cost basis.
Direct / spot repair
When testing identifies a specific leak, targeted repair may be considered.
- ✓May focus work near the confirmed leak
- ✓Depends on access and pipe condition
- ✓Confirm flooring, slab and restoration scope
Pipe rerouting
A new route may be considered when access, pipe condition or layout makes it appropriate.
- ✓May avoid accessing a specific slab area
- ✓Route and finish work vary by property
- ✓Ask about shutoffs, code and future access
Before authorizing work, request a written scope for diagnosis, access, parts, restoration, testing, permits if applicable and warranty terms.
Pricing and warranty transparency
Actual costs and warranty terms depend on the property and provider. These are questions to ask, not advertised guarantees.
TRANSPARENCY
Written estimate
Ask for itemized labor, materials, access, restoration and allowances before work starts.
TRANSPARENCY
Clear exclusions
Confirm what is not included, such as floor replacement, drywall, permits or hidden conditions.
TRANSPARENCY
Warranty in writing
Compare duration, covered parts and labor, exclusions, transferability and claim process.
Questions to ask before work begins
Clear answers help you compare options without relying on pressure or unsupported promises.
Will you need to break my slab?
It depends on the confirmed location, pipe layout and repair method. Ask the provider to compare access with rerouting.
Can thermal imaging prove a slab leak by itself?
Usually it is one clue, not a complete diagnosis. Temperature patterns have other causes and should be compared with plumbing tests.
Does insurance pay for the repair?
Policies differ. Access, pipe repair and restoration may be treated differently; check with your insurer.
What should a written quote include?
Diagnostic basis, work area, method, labor, materials, restoration, testing, schedule, payment terms and warranty exclusions.
Is rerouting always better than spot repair?
No. The choice depends on pipe condition, layout, accessibility, number of affected sections, cost and disruption.
Need help organizing your next steps?
Start with symptoms and evidence.
Send a short description of what you have noticed. This site does not provide a configured emergency dispatch line.