Non Invasive Water Leak Detection

Signs you may need hidden leak detection

An unexplained increase in water use, recurring damp or a wet patch that stays wet through dry weather can point to a concealed leak. The visible damp patch is not necessarily where the pipe is leaking: water can travel beneath flooring or along walls before it appears.

For a useful first check, turn off all taps and make sure toilets, appliances and irrigation are not drawing water. Note the water meter reading and check it again after a period without water use. Movement suggests water is still flowing somewhere, but it does not identify the source. Damp and low pressure can also have causes other than a leaking supply pipe.

• A water bill showing higher consumption without a change in household use.
• Persistent damp, peeling paint or a musty smell near walls and floors.
• An unusually warm patch on the floor that could indicate a hot-water pipe problem.
• A meter that continues recording use when all known water outlets are off.
• An unexplained wet area in the garden or beside paving.

What affects the cost of leak detection?

The work involved depends on access to the plumbing, the extent of the pipe network and how easily the suspected section can be isolated. Multiple leaks or uncertain pipe routes can make the investigation more involved than a single accessible supply line.

Fox Plumbing agrees the price upfront, and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Most leaks are found within the hour, but this is not a guarantee for every property. Ask what the agreed scope covers and how any additional investigation or repair would be authorised. Pensioners receive a special rate.

• Access to the meter, stopcocks and relevant pipe connections.
• The size and layout of the plumbing network being tested.
• Whether one or several sections need investigation.
• The time needed to isolate and prepare the affected pipework.
• Any separate work needed to expose, repair and reinstate the affected area.

Practical preparation for a Gauteng property

Fox Plumbing is based in Benoni and serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng. When booking, provide your suburb, the symptoms and whether the suspected pipe runs beneath paving, a floor or a garden. Photographs of damp areas and recent meter readings can help explain the problem before the visit.

In a complex or property with a shared supply, arrange access with the caretaker or managing agent where necessary. Confirm which meter and shut-off valve serve your unit rather than assuming that every nearby valve belongs to your property. Let the plumber know about any recent water interruptions or plumbing alterations.

• Clear access to the meter and known shut-off valves.
• Have any available pipe plans or renovation information ready.
• Arrange permission to enter locked service areas.
• Ask whether the investigation will temporarily interrupt your water supply.

Why choose Fox Plumbing?

Owner Evan Pretorius is a qualified registered plumber with more than 20 years of experience and remains on the tools. Fox Plumbing is a member of IOPSA and PIRB, issues Certificates of Compliance (COCs), and every job is insured.

For non-invasive leak detection, Fox uses harmless tracer gas and a detector rather than digging to search for the leak. Phone 084 368 1879 to discuss your property and arrange a visit. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturdays by appointment.

• Owner on the tools.
• Price agreed upfront.
• Call-out fee includes the first hour of work.
• Special rate for pensioners.
• Based in Benoni, serving the East Rand and greater Gauteng.

How we do the job

1. 1

   Review the symptoms and supply layout

   The investigation starts with the signs you have noticed, accessible plumbing and the likely route of the affected supply. Meter observations help establish whether water is flowing when it should not be.

2. 2

   Isolate and prepare the relevant pipework

   The section being tested is isolated and prepared for tracer gas testing. Access to working shut-off valves helps keep the investigation focused.

3. 3

   Introduce harmless tracer gas

   Harmless tracer gas is introduced into the prepared pipe section. It can escape through a leak, providing a signal for the detector to follow.

4. 4

   Trace the escaping gas

   The detector is used to check for gas escaping from the concealed pipework and narrow down the leak location without exploratory digging. Most leaks are found within the hour, although site conditions can affect the time required.

5. 5

   Discuss access and the next action

   Once the leak has been located, the next decision is how to reach the pipe for repair. Confirm the scope and price of any further work before authorising it; non-invasive detection does not mean every repair can be completed without opening a surface.

Common questions