Slab Leak Detection & Repair in Broward County, FL
A slab leak is a water leak in a supply or drain line running beneath your concrete foundation. In Broward County, slab leaks are common — the combination of sandy limestone soil, seasonal ground movement, and aging copper or cast iron pipes creates ideal conditions for pipe stress and pinhole failures under the slab. Left undetected, a slab leak causes foundation damage, mold, and dramatic increases in your water bill.
Signs you may have a slab leak
- ✓Sound of running water when all fixtures are off
- ✓Warm or hot spot on your floor (hot water line leak)
- ✓Unexplained spike in your water or electric bill
- ✓Cracks appearing in walls or flooring
- ✓Wet or damp carpet or flooring with no visible source
- ✓Low water pressure throughout the house
- ✓Musty smell near floors or baseboards
How we detect slab leaks
We use non-invasive detection methods before any concrete is cut. Depending on the suspected leak type and location, we use acoustic listening devices to isolate the sound of pressurized water escaping the pipe, thermal imaging cameras to identify temperature anomalies in the slab surface, and pressure testing to confirm an active supply line leak. Once the leak is pinpointed, we present repair options before any excavation begins.
Slab leak repair options
After detection, the right repair depends on pipe condition, leak location, and the age of the system:
Spot repair (targeted excavation)
If the pipe is otherwise in good condition and the leak is isolated, we core or jackhammer a small access point above the leak, repair or reroute the damaged section, and restore the slab. This is the least invasive option when the rest of the pipe is sound.
Full repipe (reroute above slab)
If the pipe system is aging and additional leaks are likely — common in homes with copper lines showing widespread pitting corrosion — we reroute the supply lines above the slab through interior walls and ceilings. This eliminates future slab access entirely.
Pipe lining (CIPP)
In limited cases where the pipe is accessible and structurally sound enough to accept a liner, CIPP (cured-in-place pipe lining) can seal pinhole leaks without excavation. We evaluate this option honestly — pipe lining reduces pipe diameter and is not appropriate for all pipe conditions or sizes.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover slab leaks in Florida?
Florida homeowner’s insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage caused by a slab leak — but not the cost of repairing or replacing the pipe itself. Citizens Property Insurance and most private carriers explicitly exclude gradual leaks that went undetected over time. The distinction between “sudden” and “gradual” is where most claims disputes arise. Document your discovery date and call your adjuster immediately when you find a slab leak.
In some cases — particularly with polybutylene supply lines or aging copper that’s corroded throughout — a whole-house repipe is a more cost-effective long-term solution than repeated slab leak repairs on individual sections.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost to detect a slab leak?
Slab leak detection in Broward County typically runs $250–$500 using acoustic and thermal methods. Repair costs vary widely: a targeted spot repair may run $1,500–$3,500; a full above-slab repipe runs $4,500–$12,000.
Is a slab leak covered by insurance in Florida?
The resulting water damage often is. The pipe repair itself usually is not. Coverage depends on your specific policy and whether the leak is classified as sudden or gradual. Call your insurer immediately and document everything.
How do I know if I have a slab leak?
The most reliable early sign is a water bill increase with no change in usage, combined with the sound of running water when everything is off. A licensed plumber can confirm with a pressure test in about 30 minutes.
Schedule a slab leak assessment
Same-day service available Monday through Saturday, 7am–7pm.