Fox Plumbing

When to call a plumber

An unexplained increase in water use, a damp patch that keeps returning or the sound of running water when taps are closed can point to a hidden leak. These signs need investigation: a high account alone does not prove that a pipe is leaking.

Fox Plumbing uses harmless tracer gas and a detector to locate hidden leaks without digging during detection. Most leaks are found within the hour, although difficult cases can take longer. Finding the leak and accessing the pipe for a repair are separate stages; a repair may still require opening the affected area.

• Check whether the account reflects an actual or estimated meter reading.
• With taps closed and water-using appliances off, check whether the meter continues to register use.
• Note where dampness appears and whether it changes after rain or plumbing use.
• Photograph visible damage before the visit, without disturbing pipes or finishes.

What affects the cost

The cost depends on the investigation needed, access to the pipework, the extent of the fault and any parts or materials required. Locating a concealed leak is different from repairing an exposed fitting, so describe the symptoms rather than assuming a particular repair is needed.

Fox Plumbing agrees the price upfront, and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Pensioners receive a special rate. When booking, ask what the agreed scope includes and how any further work will be priced before it proceeds.

• Time needed to trace and confirm the fault
• Access beneath floors, behind walls or around existing fittings
• Condition and type of pipework
• Replacement parts and repair materials
• Any opening-up or reinstatement needed after detection

Booking in the East Rand and greater Gauteng

Fox Plumbing operates from Benoni on the East Rand and serves greater Gauteng. Phone 084 368 1879 with your suburb, the problem and any useful photographs. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturday visits by appointment.

For a complex or estate, arrange access and check where the relevant water meter and isolation valve are located. If a shared supply may need to be isolated, speak to the managing agent or body corporate before the visit. This helps avoid delays and unintended interruptions to neighbours.

• Provide the property address and access instructions.
• Mention whether the problem affects one fitting or the whole property.
• Keep recent meter readings or water accounts available for a suspected leak.
• Confirm appointment availability for your location.

Why choose Fox Plumbing

Evan Pretorius is the owner and works on the tools. He is a qualified, registered plumber with more than 20 years’ experience and is a member of IOPSA and PIRB. Fox Plumbing issues Certificates of Compliance (COCs); discuss the documentation applicable to your job when agreeing the work.

Every job is insured, pricing is agreed upfront and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Fox Plumbing also makes the Cleva Cova product.

• Owner-led work with an experienced, registered plumber
• Non-invasive tracer-gas leak detection
• Upfront agreement on price
• A special rate for pensioners

How we do the job

1. 1

   Describe the problem

   Call 084 368 1879. Share your suburb, symptoms, when they started and photographs where useful.

2. 2

   Agree the scope and price

   Confirm what the visit covers and the upfront price. The call-out fee includes the first hour of work; mention if you qualify for the pensioner rate.

3. 3

   Investigate the fault

   Make the affected area, meter and isolation points accessible. For hidden leaks, Fox Plumbing uses harmless tracer gas and a detector to locate the source without digging during detection.

4. 4

   Confirm any repair work

   Once the fault is identified, clarify the repair needed, access requirements and price before authorising additional work. Non-invasive detection does not necessarily mean a repair needs no opening-up.

5. 5

   Check the outcome and documentation

   Before the job is closed, ask for an explanation of the findings and completed work, any follow-up needed and the COC where applicable.

Common questions