Quick answer
Fox Plumbing provides non-invasive water leak detection in Benoni using harmless tracer gas and a detector, with no digging needed to locate the leak. Most leaks are found within the hour, and the price is agreed upfront. Detection identifies where to focus a repair; accessing the damaged pipe may still require opening a surface.
Signs that a hidden leak needs investigating
An unexplained increase in water use, persistent damp or the sound of running water when taps are closed can point to a leak. A damp patch is not necessarily directly above the damaged pipe: water can travel before it becomes visible.
For a useful first check, turn off all taps and make sure toilets, irrigation and water-using appliances are not drawing water. Record the meter reading, avoid using water for a while, then check it again. Movement suggests water is still passing through the meter, but does not identify the source. Damp alone can also come from rainwater or waterproofing problems.
- Compare actual meter readings rather than relying only on the amount billed.
- Check for a toilet that keeps trickling into the bowl after flushing.
- Look for recurring wet ground during dry weather.
- Arrange an assessment if paint keeps bubbling or damp returns after drying.
What affects the cost of leak detection?
The time needed depends on the pipe layout, access to the relevant plumbing and whether there is one leak or more than one. A clearly isolated section of pipe can be simpler to investigate than a supply serving several buildings or branches.
Fox Plumbing agrees the price upfront, and the call-out fee includes the first hour of work. Pensioners receive a special rate. Ask what the agreed scope covers and how any further investigation or repair would be priced before authorising additional work.
- The extent and complexity of the pipework being checked.
- Access to shut-off valves and suitable testing points.
- Whether different supply branches need to be isolated.
- Additional time needed if the fault is not located within the first hour.
- Access and reinstatement requirements for a subsequent repair.
Practical preparation for a Benoni property
Before your appointment, locate your water meter and main shut-off valve if you can do so safely. Clear access to them and note when the symptoms began. Photos of damp patches and recent meter readings can help explain an intermittent problem.
If you live in a complex or share a supply, arrange access with the managing agent or person responsible for the plumbing. Confirm who can authorise a temporary water shut-off. Fox Plumbing is based in Benoni on the East Rand and serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng.
- Mention separate supply branches to a cottage, irrigation system or outbuilding.
- Tell the plumber about recent plumbing work or changes in water use.
- Do not force a seized shut-off valve.
- If water is escaping rapidly, close the main valve if safe and accessible.
Why book 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.
Call or call 084 368 1879 to arrange water leak detection in Benoni. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturday appointments by arrangement. Describe the symptoms when booking and mention if you qualify for the pensioner rate.
- Owner on the tools.
- Harmless tracer gas detection without digging.
- Price agreed upfront.
- Call-out fee includes the first hour of work.
How we do the job
- 1
Explain the symptoms and agree the scope
Share changes in water use, visible damp and any meter checks. Confirm the price and what the detection visit includes before work begins.
- 2
Check the supply and access points
The relevant pipework and available shut-off points are assessed to determine which section needs testing.
- 3
Introduce harmless tracer gas
Tracer gas is introduced into the pipe section under investigation so that gas escaping through a fault can be detected.
- 4
Trace the escaping gas
A detector is used to locate escaping tracer gas without digging. Most leaks are found within the hour, although more complex investigations can take longer.
- 5
Discuss the findings and repair access
The findings guide the next decision about repair. Confirm the proposed work and price before proceeding, including any opening of paving, walls or floors that may be needed.
Common questions
Will you need to dig up my garden or break tiles to find the leak? +
Fox Plumbing's tracer gas detection method locates leaks without digging. Repairing the damaged pipe is a separate task and may require access through the surface above it.
How long does water leak detection take? +
Most leaks are found within the hour. This is not a guaranteed completion time: pipe layout, access and multiple faults can make an investigation longer.
Is the tracer gas harmful? +
Fox Plumbing uses harmless tracer gas and a detector for non-invasive leak detection.
Does a moving water meter prove there is an underground leak? +
No. It shows that water is passing through the meter. A filling toilet, irrigation system or appliance may explain the movement. If all normal water use has stopped and the reading still changes, further investigation is sensible.
Will my home insurance cover the detection work? +
Cover depends on your policy and the circumstances. Ask your insurer whether leak detection, access and repairs are covered and whether approval is needed before work starts. Fox Plumbing's insured-job status does not determine your household policy cover.
