FAQ’s
Our approach is systematic, efficient, and designed to minimise unnecessary excavation:
Confirm the leak
We measure water loss at the meter to determine flow rate and verify that a leak is present.
Rule out internal causes
A quick inspection of toilets, hot water systems, and exposed pipework ensures the issue isn’t within the dwelling.
Locate underground services
Using radiodetection equipment, we identify likely pipe routes, particularly alongside electrical trenches where watermains are commonly installed.
Apply the most effective detection method
We select the best technology for the situation:
Acoustic detection for larger, audible leaks or Ferret technology for pinpoint accuracy where leaks are small, complex, or undetectable by sound
Leak detection starts from $179 + GST, which includes travel and up to 1 hour on site.
This covers:
- Measuring water loss
- Initial site inspection
- Acoustic leak detection (where conditions allow)
The final cost depends on factors such as:
- Size and complexity of the property
- Location of the watermain
- Accessibility and ground conditions
- Background noise levels
If the leak cannot be accurately located using acoustic methods — particularly in noisy environments or with very small leaks — we will move to Phase 2: Ferret Leak Locating technology.
This is an advanced pressure-based system that allows us to pinpoint leaks with a high level of accuracy, but it requires additional time and setup.
If the leak cannot be accurately located using acoustic methods. Ferret Leak Locating technology will be required.
This is charged at $550 + GST, which includes specialist equipment, a consumable Ferret head, and up to 2 additional hours on site.
If we are called for a Ferret Leak Location only, the Fee will be $600 + GST and includes, like the above – specialist equipment, a consumable Ferret head, and up to 2 hours on site.
(the extra $50 + GST covers call out fee and travel)
Any additional time required is charged at $120 + GST per hour and will be clearly discussed with you before proceeding.
Acoustic leak detection works by listening for the sound & vibration of water escaping from a pipe under pressure. While it is effective in many situations, it relies heavily on the leak producing enough noise to be detected.
There are several reasons why acoustic methods may not work:
- Very small or slow leaks often produce little to no detectable sound
- Plastic pipework (e.g. MDPE) does not transmit sound as well as metal pipes
- Background noise from traffic, construction, or neighbouring properties can interfere with listening
- Deep or covered pipes (under concrete, driveways, or in a conduit) can dampen sound significantly
In these situations, the leak may still be present — it’s just not “audible”.
That’s where we can use advanced methods such as the Ferret Leak Locating system, which does not rely on sound and allows us to accurately pinpoint leaks even when acoustic detection is ineffective.
Accuracy depends on the method used and the nature of the leak.
Acoustic detection can be very effective for larger leaks that produce enough noise, but its accuracy is influenced by factors such as leak size, pipe material, depth, and background noise.
For smaller leaks or more complex situations, we use Ferret Leak Locating technology, which is significantly more precise. By testing the pipe in sections and monitoring pressure changes, we can accurately pinpoint the location of the leak rather than relying on sound alone.
In most cases, we are able to successfully locate the leak using a combination of acoustic and advanced detection methods.
Situations where a leak cannot be located are rare, and are typically related to the condition or configuration of the watermain rather than the detection process itself.
If acoustic detection is unsuccessful, we move to Ferret Leak Locating technology, which is highly effective. The main limitation in these cases is access through the pipe, for example:
- Crushed or damaged sections
- Tight bends such as 90° elbows
- Internal obstructions or irregular pipework
The Ferret head can pass through standard straight fittings and couplers, however in some cases a smaller head may be required, which can add to the overall cost.
If all detection methods are exhausted, we will clearly discuss the
In most cases, no excavation is required during the detection process.
Our goal is to accurately locate the leak first, so that any repair work is targeted and minimal, rather than digging up large areas unnecessarily.
Using advanced methods such as Ferret Leak Locating technology, we can often pinpoint the exact location of the leak — even under driveways or concrete — significantly reducing the amount of disruption required.
Accurate detection is what keeps repair costs and property damage to a minimum.
Most leaks are located within 1 to 1-1/2 hours, for Acoustic Detection – however this can vary depending on site conditions.
Straightforward leaks can often be identified quickly, while more complex jobs — particularly where acoustic detection is ineffective — may require additional time using advanced methods such as Ferret Leak Locating technology which an additional 2 hours on site is allowed for in the fee.
Our approach is systematic and thorough, ensuring the leak is accurately pinpointed and unnecessary excavation is avoided.
Yes — we can complete the repair for you, or if you prefer, your usual plumber can carry out the work. The choice is entirely yours.
Yes — and this is where our advanced equipment really makes the difference.
Small or slow leaks are often impossible to hear using standard acoustic methods, particularly on plastic pipes or in noisy conditions. These are the types of leaks that are commonly missed or left unresolved.
Using Ferret Leak Locating technology, we can accurately pinpoint leaks that produce little or no noise by sectional pressure testing and analysing gauge feedback, rather than relying on sound.
This makes it possible to find leaks that others often can’t.
Using advanced Ferret pressure-testing technology combined with acoustic survey methods, Leak Locators can pinpoint underground water main leaks that less sophisticated methods often miss.
Working in the plumbing industry for this long provides a deep understanding of how water mains have been installed and materials used over the years.
This knowledge is extremely valuable when locating leaks, solving difficult problems, and determining the most effective solution.
