Question 1

How do you actually detect a leak?

Accepted Answer

We use a combination of methods depending on the situation, including thermal imaging leak detection, acoustic detection, moisture meters and CCTV inspections. The approach is based on where the leak is likely to be and how accessible it is.

Question 2

Do you fix the leak too, or just find it?

Accepted Answer

We specialise in finding leaks – that’s all we do. But our service does not stop there. Once we find the leak we will provide you with a clear easy to understand report with pictures, maps and recommendations. Also, once we have found your water leak and while still on your property, we will contact 3 independent contractors for repair quotes which you will typically receive in 24hrs for a repair. You are always welcome to use your own plumber for the repair – no obligation.

Question 3

Can you find leaks without digging or damaging property?

Accepted Answer

Most leak detection is non-invasive. The whole point of pinpoint detection is to find the precise location of the leak without doing invasive digging of concrete or tiles. The "rip up part of the driveway" approach is what happens when nobody actually knows where the leak is. NOT US! Using tools like thermal imaging, CCTV cameras and acoustic listening devices made especially for concrete slabs, we can locate leaks and underground leaks without unnecessary excavation. On some occasions we may insert a probe through the concrete using a couple of 1cm holes which are usually placed where the repair would be anyway – but we will always ask you if we have to drill a hole in concrete.

Question 4

Can you detect leaks under a concrete slab?

Accepted Answer

Yes — slab leaks are most of what we do. Acoustic and thermal both work through concrete. That's the whole reason this service exists: so the slab stays intact.

Question 5

What if you can't find my leak?

Accepted Answer

If we can't find it on the visit, you don't pay for the detection.

Question 6

Do you provide independent repair quotes?

Accepted Answer

After locating the leak, we arrange requests for 3 independent repair quotes within 24 hours to ensure you get the best value. We give you the reports and photos, so that if you choose, you can get your own quotes and compare them.

Question 7

Do I need to be at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, at least at the start — there's usually a couple of questions I'll want to ask while I walk the property. If you need to be at work for the whole of that day we can usually book you in for a very early appointment at 7am (before you start work), or during your lunch time so you can duck home.

Question 8

Will I get a report I can show my insurer or strata?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After the detection I send through a written report with the location, the method used, and photos. Insurers and strata managers ask for this all the time — it's part of the service, not an extra.

Question 9

What locations do you cover?

Accepted Answer

The Sunshine Coast and northern Brisbane. As far north as Noosa and as far South as Chermside in Northern Brisbane. See our map on the home screen.

Question 10

How do I know if I've actually got a hidden leak?

Accepted Answer

Common signs: a water bill that's quietly crept up, a warm or damp patch on the floor, the sound of running water in the wall, mould or paint blistering with no obvious cause, or grass that's suspiciously green in one spot. But the best sign is your water meter keeps ticking when all taps are off. If any of that sounds familiar, it's worth a call before it gets worse. You can also determine how much water you are losing by doing a simple water meter test.

Question 11

How is leak detection different from what a normal plumber does?

Accepted Answer

A normal plumber will look, listen, and often guess. We use acoustic listening, thermal imaging, CCTV drain cameras and moisture meters to prove where the leak is before anyone picks up a shovel or has to dig through concrete. That's why most of our jobs avoid the dig altogether. LEAK TRACEtypical plumberSpecializationSpecialist leak detection is the only thing we doLeak detection is usually just one of many plumbing services and because they do it so rarely they do not have the expertise or equipment for itEquipmentState of the art acoustic listening, drain cameras, thermal & moisture equipmentOften relies on visual checks and trial-and-errorAccuracy and speedPinpoints the leak before repairs beginExact leak location marked and documentedMay start digging before the leak is properly located – often trial and error "We think it's somewhere around here" not to mention the extra time they charge per hour than a specialist who is much quickerDamageMinimal damage to tiles, driveways & slabsHigher chance of unnecessary cutting or excavationTimeSame-day service where possibleWait days or a week between inspections and repairsCostWe get you 3 independent quotes in 24hr to have it fixed. No obligation. We even send you the complete report and pictures if you want to get your own quotes.Charging very high prices for repair often because you feel obligated to have them fix it rather than getting some quotes to get a lower price.

Question 12

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

If you are not a commercial business/property and the leak is at least 10L/hr (any smaller than that can be impossible to find) then it will be our discounted offer of $298 flat fee, with our “Find it. Or it’s FREE” promise.

Question 13

How quickly can Leak Trace attend to my leak?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, we can attend the same day or within 24hrs depending on location and workload. If the issue is urgent, it’s best to call so we can prioritize accordingly.

Question 14

Do you provide both residential and commercial leak detection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide leak detection services for homeowners, plumbers, builders and civil projects. This includes everything from house leak detection and bathroom leak detection to commercial water leak detection and large-scale infrastructure work.

Water leak detection – Frequently asked questions