Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about HydroTrace's leak detection, CCTV inspection, GPR survey and pipe rehabilitation services.
Leak Detection Basics
How does leak detection actually work?
Modern leak detection uses several techniques in combination. Acoustic equipment listens for the sound a leak makes through pipe walls. Pressure decay tests isolate which pipe circuit is leaking. Thermal imaging finds temperature differences caused by hot-water leaks. Tracer gas methods locate leaks in plastic pipes. The right combination depends on the situation.
How accurate is leak detection?
For acoustic detection on standard residential and commercial pipework, location accuracy is typically within 200-400 mm — close enough that any necessary excavation or slab cutting is targeted to a small area.
Will you damage my floors or walls?
No. Detection is non-invasive. We don't lift tiles, open walls or break concrete during the investigation. If a repair requires those things, that's a separate step you can choose to authorise after seeing the findings.
How long does a typical investigation take?
A standard residential leak detection takes 2-4 hours on site. Pool leak detection takes 2-3 hours. CCTV drain inspections take 1-3 hours depending on access and line length.
What if you can't find the leak?
This is rare with modern equipment. In those cases we explain what we found, what we ruled out, and what to investigate next. You're not charged the full fee if we can't deliver a useful answer.
Costs & Quotes
Do you charge a call-out fee?
Yes — HydroTrace call-out fees start from R1,650 for standard leak detection investigations, depending on property conditions and the investigation required. The fee covers the technician's travel and the initial on-site diagnostic work.
How much does leak detection cost?
Call-out fees for standard residential leak detection start from R1,650. CCTV pipe camera inspections start from R2,450 per hour. See our pricing page for the full breakdown.
Do you accept card payment?
Yes — card payment on site, EFT, Zapper and SnapScan are all accepted.
Will my insurance cover the cost?
Most South African home and commercial policies cover leak detection when a hidden leak is confirmed. The detection report unlocks the larger claim for repair and damage remediation. See our insurance claims page for details.
Documentation & Claims
Are your reports accepted by insurers?
Yes. HydroTrace reports are formatted to standard South African insurer requirements — diagnostic data, marked site plan, recommended scope. They're routinely accepted by major insurers and their nominated assessors.
How long does it take to receive the report?
Most reports are issued within 24-48 hours of the site visit.
Can you send the report directly to my insurer?
With your written authorisation, yes. Common for body corporates and commercial clients.
What if my insurer disputes the findings?
Disputes are uncommon when reports are supported by diagnostic data. If a dispute does arise, we can provide raw test data, attend an assessor's site visit, or issue clarifications.
Repair, Compliance & What's Next
Do you do the repair yourselves?
For pipe rehabilitation (CIPP relining, brush coating, structural repair) yes. For general plumbing repair following detection, we work with PIRB-registered plumbing partners and can coordinate the work.
How long does pipe relining last?
CIPP liners typically have a design life of 50+ years.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Yes — warranty terms vary by service and are stated in your quotation before work begins.
Booking, Areas & Timing
How quickly can you come out?
For standard bookings in our core Gauteng service area, same-day or next-day appointments are usually available. Emergency response is 24/7.
Where do you operate?
Headquartered in Gauteng with primary coverage across Johannesburg, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand and surrounding suburbs.
Do I need to be on site during the investigation?
For residential work, yes — at least at the start. For commercial work, a building manager or maintenance contact is sufficient.