How do I know if I have a slab leak?
Warning signs include warm or damp floors, standing water, sudden changes in water pressure, unusually high water bills, and hearing running water when no fixtures are in use.
Does homeowners insurance cover slab leak repair?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, so if a pipe burst without warning, insurance may cover part of the repair — but insurance rarely covers leaks caused by gradual corrosion or wear, and typically does not cover the cost of accessing the pipe.
Is it better to repair the single leak or repipe the whole house?
If your home is more than 25 to 30 years old with original copper or galvanized pipes, one slab leak is often a sign that more are coming — a full PEX repipe will likely cost less over time than paying for multiple slab leak repairs across the next few years. If you have 2+ slab leaks, rerouting the entire plumbing above-slab is almost always more cost-effective than repairing each individual leak.
How urgent is a slab leak — can it wait?
No — an active slab leak erodes foundation soil and can cause foundation movement within weeks; never delay a confirmed slab leak, turn off the main water supply immediately if you suspect an active leak, and call a licensed plumber within 24 hours.
What happens if a slab leak goes untreated for a long time?
Long-running slab leaks can cause foundation damage costing $20,000–$100,000+ to repair — far beyond the original leak repair cost.
What’s the difference between tunneling and rerouting for slab leak repair?
Tunneling preserves existing piping but requires excavating under the foundation, while rerouting installs entirely new pipe above the slab — a better long-term solution for corroded copper.
Can I detect a slab leak myself before calling a plumber?
You can watch for warning signs (listed above), but pinpointing the exact location requires professional equipment — electronic leak detection uses acoustic sensors and electromagnetic equipment to pinpoint leak locations without excavation, costing $150–$400.