Underground Pipe Repair & Leak Detection in Broward County, FL
Underground pipe problems are among the most expensive and disruptive plumbing failures a Broward County homeowner can face — but they’re also among the most misdiagnosed. A high water bill, a soft spot in the yard, or the sound of running water under the slab doesn’t automatically mean you need a full line replacement. It means you need a proper diagnosis first. We use three detection methods to pinpoint the problem before recommending any repair.
Signs of an underground pipe leak
- ✓Water bill is significantly higher than normal with no change in usage
- ✓Sound of running water when all fixtures and appliances are off
- ✓Warm or wet spots on the floor or slab surface
- ✓Soft, soggy, or unusually green patches in the yard
- ✓Cracks developing in your foundation or interior walls
- ✓Persistent low water pressure throughout the house
How we detect underground leaks
We use three non-invasive methods before any digging begins:
Acoustic leak detection
Electronic listening devices amplify the sound of pressurized water escaping a pipe underground. By moving the sensor across the slab or yard surface, we can narrow a leak to within inches of its actual location — eliminating guesswork about where to excavate.
Thermal imaging
Infrared cameras detect temperature anomalies at the slab surface caused by a leaking hot water line. A supply line leak running beneath the slab will create a measurable heat signature visible on thermal imaging even when the surface appears dry.
Sewer camera inspection
For drain and sewer line problems, a camera inspection confirms whether the issue is a crack, a root intrusion, a bellied section, or a collapsed pipe — and exactly where in the line the problem is located.
Underground pipe repair methods
Tunneling (the Broward County standard)
For underground pipe replacement beneath a slab foundation, tunneling is the method that holds up to inspection. Workers hand-dig a tunnel beneath the foundation, access the damaged pipe, replace it with new PVC or cast iron, and restore the tunnel with compacted fill. The slab stays intact. No flooring is removed. Broward County and all incorporated cities require permits for this work — tunneled replacements pass 100% of city inspections when done correctly.
Tunneling typically runs $350–$450 per linear foot in Broward County depending on depth, soil conditions, and pipe diameter. A full cast iron drain line replacement under a 1,500 sq ft home commonly runs $8,000–$18,000.
Targeted spot repair
When the leak or damage is isolated to a short section and the surrounding pipe is structurally sound, a targeted excavation and spot repair is significantly less expensive than full line replacement. We scope the line before recommending this option to confirm the rest of the system is in acceptable condition.
Above-slab reroute
For supply line leaks under the slab, rerouting the line through interior walls and ceilings above the slab is often faster and less expensive than underground excavation. This eliminates future slab access for that line entirely.
Frequently asked questions
How do you find a water leak underground?
We use acoustic listening devices to detect the sound of pressurized water escaping the pipe, thermal imaging to identify temperature anomalies at the slab surface, and pressure testing to confirm an active supply line leak. Sewer line problems are diagnosed with a camera inspection.
How much does underground pipe repair cost in Broward County?
Tunneling for underground sewer line replacement runs $350–$450 per linear foot. A full drain line replacement under a typical Broward home runs $8,000–$18,000. Spot repairs for isolated supply line leaks typically run $1,500–$4,500 depending on access and depth.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover underground pipe leaks?
Sudden and accidental water damage from an underground leak is often covered. The pipe repair itself is typically not. Citizens Insurance and most private carriers in Florida exclude gradual or long-term leaks. Document your discovery date and contact your insurer immediately.
Schedule an underground leak assessment
Same-day service available Monday through Saturday, 7am–7pm.