How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Slab Leak?

The national average cost to repair a slab leak will land around $2,000 give or take. To detect a slab leak the price is somewhere between $150 and $400. This rather large price is mainly due to how difficult it is to access the pipes causing the issue. You see, slab leaks happen when the sewer lines underneath the foundation of a home burst and cause rising water levels that eventually result in extensive water damage to the property. Most homes are built on a concrete foundation (the ‘slab’ in this case) that makes it difficult not only for plumbers to access the pipes below, but often to even tell where the problem is located.

Due to this, it can get rather pricey to have the problem resolved by a professional. 

How Serious is A Slab Leak?

Slab leaks can be extremely serious and even threatening to your health. This is because when left unfixed, the build up of water from the leak will cause water damage to the home, resulting in a number of issues one of which being mold. Mold is extremely dangerous and can have serious, lasting health effects on those in the home if not taking care of as quickly as possible. 

Aside from the issue of mold, a slab leak can lead to an unsteady foundation which poses its own safety risks. Without a proper slab, the structure of the home will eventually deteriorate and buckle. These are a few of the main reasons why if you suspect a slab leak you should contact a professional immediately to scope out the area. It’s a good idea not only for your health but for your finances as well. The longer the problem is left, the further the water damage will spread, and you may find yourself with damaged flooring.

How Can You Tell if You Have A Leak Under Your Slab?

There are many signs to look out for that may indicate you have a slab leak. I will list a few of the telltale signs below so that you are well equipped with the knowledge necessary to spot a problem fast.

• Sound of water: you may hear a faint sound of running water under your flooring.

• In the event that the hot water line breaks, you may find that a certain spot of your floor is unusually warm from the rest.

• Accumulation of water in your yard: With the water from the pipes building up it will inevitably escape out into your yard. It’s a good idea to check your yard regularly for potential flooding or unusually muddy areas. 

• High water bill: another sign of a busted water pipe under your foundation is a higher than normal water bill. This could be a sign of a bigger problem, so it’s important for you to keep track of how much water is used on a monthly basis, given during summer months you will see a change in your utility bill but it may not be due to a slab leak. 
•  How to test it: This test takes about 2-3 hours to complete. In order to determine if you are dealing with a slab leak take a few minutes out of your day to test out this theory. Make sure you will not need to use any appliances for 2-3 hours that use up water such as toilets, sinks, showers and washer machines. Next go outside and read your water meter and write down the numbers shown, return back in 2-3 hours to write down the numbers again. If you have not used any water in the last 2-3 hours but notice your meter change then you should contact a plumber to verify where the leak is in your home. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Slab Leak Repair?

What Happens If You Have A Slab Leak?