Slab Leak Detection in Arlington, TX

Slab leak detection finds a leak in the water lines that run under or inside your home's concrete foundation. Technicians use pressure tests, acoustic ground microphones and thermal cameras to mark the leak within a foot or two, so the slab is opened in one small spot. In Arlington, it usually costs $250 to $600. Call (817) 285-5426, 24/7.

Most Arlington homes are built on slab foundations, with copper or PEX water lines running underneath. When one of those lines leaks, the water goes into the soil under your floor where you cannot see it. Finding it early protects your floors and foundation.

What are the signs of a slab leak?

The most common signs are a water bill that jumps for no reason, the sound of running water when everything is off, warm spots on tile or wood floors, damp carpet or a musty smell, new cracks in walls or tile, and a water meter that keeps moving with all taps closed. Two or more signs together is a strong reason to call.

• Water bill higher than the same month last year
• Running water sound at night
• Warm floor spot (hot water line leak)
• Damp carpet or warped wood floors
• Cracks in tile, drywall or the slab
• Water heater running more than normal

Read our full guide to slab leak signs in Arlington.

How does slab leak detection work?

First, we confirm a leak with a meter test and pressure test the hot and cold lines to learn which one is losing water. Then we listen through the floor with acoustic ground microphones and scan with a thermal camera to narrow it down. When the sound and heat patterns agree, we mark the spot.

1. Meter test: confirm water is leaving the system with every fixture off.
2. Isolate the line: pressure test hot, cold and branch lines.
3. Trace the pipe: a locator shows where the line runs under the slab.
4. Listen and scan: acoustic and thermal tools find the loudest, warmest point.
5. Mark and explain: you see the spot and the repair options with prices.

Our guide on how leak detection works explains each tool in more detail.

Why are slab leaks so common in Arlington?

Arlington sits on expansive clay soil. It swells when wet and shrinks during summers over 100°F, so the slab and the pipes under it move a little every year. Over time, copper lines rub against concrete and gravel until they wear through. Older homes from the 1960s to the 1990s are most at risk.

Neighborhoods like Woodland West, Interlochen and much of East and North Arlington have many homes from that era. Hard freezes, like Winter Storm Uri in 2021, added more stress to lines in exterior walls and slabs.

How much does slab leak detection cost in Arlington?

Slab leak detection in Arlington usually costs about $250 to $600. A simple, single-line test sits at the low end. Larger homes, several lines and after-hours calls cost more. Repair is priced separately; a slab leak spot repair often runs $1,500 to $4,000.

General estimates for Arlington, TX in 2026. Your exact price is confirmed before any work begins.

What should I do while I wait for a technician?

If water is spreading or the leak is large, close the main shut-off valve. If it is a hot water line, turn off the water heater too. Move rugs and furniture off damp areas, take photos for insurance and avoid using water until the leak is found.

Once the leak is marked, see your options on our slab leak repair page. If you have a pool, rule it out first with our pool leak detection service.