Emergency Leak Detection in Northern Johannesburg

Your water bill has tripled, the meter ticks with all taps closed, and there's a damp patch on the wall — but no visible leak. Concealed leaks are some of the most expensive plumbing problems in Johannesburg because slab penetrations and underground breaks are easy to miss. We use acoustic listening sticks, tracer-gas (hydrogen/nitrogen mix) and thermal imaging to pinpoint the leak to within 10–15 cm before any drilling or breaking — saving you thousands in unnecessary excavation.

What we do

Our leak detection workflow combines acoustic correlation, tracer-gas injection, and infra-red thermal imaging. We start by isolating zones at the manifold, then pressure-test each circuit individually. Once a circuit is identified we use the acoustic correlator to triangulate the leak under tile, plaster or paving. Tracer gas is used for slab and underground confirmation. We supply a written and photographic report — accepted by all major South African insurers — and can repair the leak on the same visit.

Signs you need this service

• Water bill has doubled or tripled with no explanation
• Water meter still moves with main supply isolated
• Persistent damp patches on internal walls
• Warm spot on floor tiles (hot-water slab leak)
• Cracking paint or efflorescence on walls
• Drop in water pressure with no other cause

Our process

1. 1Manifold isolation and zone-by-zone pressure tests
2. 2Acoustic correlation to locate the leak source
3. 3Tracer gas confirmation for slab and underground leaks
4. 4Thermal imaging on hot-water lines
5. 5Marked-up report with leak coordinates
6. 6Repair and reinstate surfaces in the same visit

Pricing

Standard leak-detection callout R1,800–R2,800 including written report. Repair quoted separately on site. Most insurance policies include leak-detection cover — we can claim direct with your insurer where applicable.

Prices are indicative for Northern Johannesburg, 2026. Every job is quoted in writing on site before work proceeds.

Why choose Apple Plumbing & Electrical

We use calibrated, professional-grade leak-detection equipment (not borrowed acoustic mics) and combine three different techniques per job. Our reports are accepted by Santam, Discovery Insure, OUTsurance and others without question.

Frequently asked questions