A leak is a problem that many property owners will experience, and it’s critical to the long term integrity of your property to resolve the problem quickly. Leak detection can save you from excessive fees or property damage that results from having the wrong people and equipment on the job.

Today’s technology allows an experienced leak technician to locate the leak in a nondestructive manner, saving the property owner hundreds of dollars in exploratory repairs alone. Many service companies do not have the necessary equipment or experience to locate leaks accurately and quickly, hence they resort to destructive methods of searching for the leak, by making holes, cutting walls, and more.

Here are just a few of the many criteria that you should consider for your next leak detection company:

• Experience. How long have they been in business providing leak detection service? Are they the company that the plumbing professionals would turn to if they have a problem finding it? Do they have the capability to  identify whether the problem is plumbing supply, structure or septic? Are they licensed?

• Referrals. Is the company respected amongst their peers? Does the company get referrals from previous clients such as homeowners, property managers, plumbers or septic professionals for new clients who have leak problems? Do they work with local utility companies to help reduce water loss and do they have ongoing business relationships with similar accounts in your area?

• Equipment. Make sure the company has a well rounded selection of equipment to locate the leak quickly with minimum damage to your property. Simply using a stethoscope to the floor is not leak detection today. Do they have electronic detectors, video inspection cameras for sewers and drains, can they find leaks in walls and ceilings, under slabs and underground; do they do pools and irrigation system leaks? Each job type requires different equipment and training.

• Resources. Are they involved in associations for the research and advancement of leak detection techniques and equipment? Do they work with the utility company and provide assistance to you if needed?

• Price. Do they give you a flat-rate upfront price, an hourly rate, or a really low price that will get them in the door and later the price increases once the job is started? Reputable firms can give you an upfront non-biased flat-fee for the cost of leak detection for residential properties without offering to sell you services you may not need.

• Insurance Coverage. Do they work with Insurance Companies? Check with your adjuster to see if your policy covers leak detection services performed by a reputable leak detection company. Your insurance provider wants to ensure that damage is kept to a minimum when locating the leak. Why, because once you know what the problem is, it is less expensive for them and they don’t have to pay for needless damage caused by exploratory searching for the leak source.

Since 1993, the Leak Doctor has been helping property owners, managers and plumbing professionals locate leaks in their pools, plumbing, irrigation and structural systems. We welcome the opportunity to assist you with your leak detection needs. Call us today at 407.426.9995, email  or visit www.leakdoctor.com to schedule your service call.