Leak Detection in Fort Lauderdale

Professional leak detection in South Florida costs $350–$750 depending on the method used and complexity of the leak. Slab leak location using thermal imaging and acoustic equipment typically runs $220–$750. Royal Elite Plumbing provides a detailed written estimate before any work begins, no hidden fees.

We use two non-invasive technologies: thermal imaging cameras that detect temperature differences caused by water movement, and acoustic listening devices that amplify the sound of pressurized water escaping through pipe walls. Combined, these methods let us pinpoint the exact leak location within inches, no guesswork, no unnecessary demolition. Most leak locations are confirmed in 30–60 minutes.

Warning signs include: unexplained increases in your water bill (a 20%+ spike is a common indicator), the sound of running water when all fixtures are off, warm or damp spots on tile floors or carpet, mold or musty odors near baseboards, low water pressure, and hairline cracks appearing in walls or floors. In South Florida, slab leaks often cause the foundation to shift, creating visible door frame gaps.

Yes, slab leak detection is one of our primary specialties in Palm Beach and Broward County. South Florida homes are built on concrete slab foundations with copper pipes running through or under the slab. Hard water (averaging 15–25 grains per gallon per SFWMD data) corrodes copper from the inside, creating pinhole leaks under the foundation. We use specialized acoustic equipment and thermal imaging to locate slab leaks without jackhammering the entire floor.

Most residential leak detection appointments take 1–2 hours. Simple cases, such as a single-point wall leak, can be confirmed in 30–45 minutes. Complex situations involving multiple potential sources or extensive slab coverage may take 2–3 hours. We provide a written report with the confirmed leak location and repair options at the end of the appointment.

Royal Elite Plumbing detects: slab leaks (pipes under concrete foundations), in-wall supply line leaks, water main leaks, irrigation system leaks, pool plumbing leaks, gas line pressure losses, and roof-to-plumbing interface leaks. Our thermal imaging equipment also identifies moisture intrusion from external sources, which helps distinguish plumbing leaks from roof or HVAC condensation issues.