Quick answer
A water leak detection specialist locates hidden pipe leaks without opening walls or digging simply to search for the problem. Fox Plumbing serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng from Benoni, using harmless tracer gas and a detector for non-invasive detection. Most leaks are found within the hour, although difficult cases can take longer.
Signs that a hidden leak needs checking
An unexplained increase in water use, persistent damp or a wet patch that remains through dry weather can point to a leaking pipe. These signs need investigation: damp can also come from rainwater or drainage problems, and poor pressure alone does not prove there is a leak.
For a useful first check, turn off taps and make sure toilets, washing machines and other water-using equipment are not filling. Note the water meter reading, leave all water use off for a short period, then check again. Movement suggests water is still flowing somewhere, but does not identify the source.
- Compare actual meter readings rather than relying only on a higher bill, which may include estimated readings.
- Check visible taps, toilet cisterns and accessible pipe connections before assuming the leak is underground.
- Watch for recurring damp skirtings, lifting paint or unexplained wet ground.
- If water is escaping rapidly, close the property's stopcock if it is safe and accessible.
What affects the cost of leak detection?
The work required depends on how easily the pipework can be accessed and isolated, the size and layout of the plumbing system, and whether more than one leak is suspected. Missing pipe-route information or several connected branches can make the search more involved.
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 includes and how any additional work would be approved; locating a leak and accessing the pipe for repair are separate tasks.
- Access to the meter, stopcock and pipe connections.
- The length and complexity of the pipe route being checked.
- Time needed to isolate and test different sections.
- Any repair access and surface reinstatement needed after detection.
Practical preparation for a Gauteng visit
Fox Plumbing is based in Benoni and serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng. When booking, give your suburb, describe the symptoms and say whether the problem affects the whole property or only one area. Photos of damp patches and recent meter readings can help explain what you have noticed.
Clear access to the meter and stopcock where possible. In a complex or property with shared plumbing, check who controls the relevant shut-off valve and arrange access with the caretaker or managing agent. Do not operate shared valves without permission.
- Mention recent plumbing alterations or repairs that may help explain the pipe layout.
- Say whether the damp appears continuously, after rain or only when a fixture is used.
- Book Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, or Saturday by appointment.
- Phone 084 368 1879 to discuss the problem and arrange a visit.
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.
Fox uses harmless tracer gas and a detector to locate leaks without digging during detection. This helps avoid opening surfaces simply to search for the leak. A damaged pipe may still need to be exposed for repair, so non-invasive detection should not be confused with a guarantee of a no-dig repair.
- Owner on the tools.
- Price agreed upfront.
- Call-out fee includes the first hour of work.
- Special rate for pensioners.
How we do the job
- 1
Describe the symptoms
Explain when the problem started, where water or damp appears, and whether your meter readings or water pressure have changed.
- 2
Check the accessible plumbing
Visible leaks and the available isolation points help establish which part of the system needs investigation. The price and scope are agreed before work proceeds.
- 3
Prepare the suspect pipe section
The relevant section is isolated and prepared for tracer gas testing. Access to valves and pipe connections helps make this possible.
- 4
Trace the escaping gas
Harmless tracer gas is introduced into the prepared pipe section. A detector checks for gas escaping from the leak, allowing the search to proceed without digging.
- 5
Identify the location and discuss repair access
Once the leak is located, the next decision is how to reach and repair the damaged pipe. Confirm any additional scope and price before further work starts.
Common questions
How long does leak detection take? +
Fox Plumbing finds most leaks within the hour. Complicated pipe routes, limited access or multiple suspected leaks can take longer, so this is not a guaranteed completion time.
Will my paving or tiles need to be lifted? +
Fox's tracer gas detection method does not require digging to search for the leak. Reaching the damaged pipe for repair may still require lifting paving, opening a wall or accessing a floor.
Does a moving water meter always mean an underground leak? +
No. A toilet cistern, dripping tap or appliance drawing water can also move the meter. If all water use has stopped and the reading continues to change, further investigation is needed.
Is tracer gas harmless? +
Fox Plumbing uses harmless tracer gas with a detector. The gas escapes through the pipe defect, allowing the detector to help locate the leak.
How do I book leak detection in Gauteng? +
Phone Fox Plumbing on 084 368 1879 with your suburb and a description of the problem. Hours are Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00, with Saturdays by appointment. Fox serves the East Rand and greater Gauteng from Benoni.
