Common Signs of a Slab Leak

While slab leaks are hidden, the warning signs often reveal themselves throughout your home. Keep an eye out for:

• Unexpected spikes in your water bill: A continuous leak beneath the slab wastes water around the clock.
• Warm or damp spots on flooring: If a hot water line is leaking, you may notice one area of flooring that feels unusually warm.
• Low water pressure: Leaking pipes can reduce the flow of water throughout your plumbing system.
• Mildew odors or mold growth: Excess moisture trapped beneath flooring or carpets can lead to musty smells.
• Cracks in walls or flooring: Over time, leaking water erodes soil and destabilizes the foundation, leading to structural shifts.

If you’ve noticed any of these red flags, it’s time to contact a professional plumber for an inspection before the damage worsens.

Causes of Slab Leaks in Florida Homes

Slab leaks can develop for a variety of reasons, especially in older homes common to the Sarasota and Tampa areas. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Corroded copper pipes: Many Florida homes built before the 1980s still rely on copper plumbing. Over time, minerals and chemicals in the water corrode these pipes from the inside out.
• Soil movement and settling: The sandy soils along Florida’s Gulf Coast expand and contract with moisture changes, creating pressure on buried pipes.
• Abrasion and vibration: As water flows through your pipes, the natural vibration can cause friction against concrete or gravel, eventually wearing through the metal.
• Poor installation or construction defects: Improperly wrapped or installed pipes can rub against rebar or rough surfaces beneath the slab.

Understanding what caused your leak helps ensure a long-lasting solution that prevents future problems — not just a quick patch.

Our Professional Leak Detection Process

At Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric, we combine decades of plumbing expertise with advanced diagnostic technology to locate and repair slab leaks accurately. Our goal is to minimize disruption while delivering a permanent fix.

Accurate and Non-Invasive Leak Repairs

We use state-of-the-art electronic leak detection equipment to pinpoint the exact location of your leak — no unnecessary digging or guesswork involved. Once located, we’ll recommend the most effective repair method based on your home’s plumbing layout and the severity of the leak.

In many cases, our technicians can reroute plumbing lines or use spot repairs to resolve the issue without having to break through your entire slab. For larger leaks or older systems, we’ll discuss repiping options that ensure your home’s plumbing is safe and reliable for years to come. Our slab leak repair services are designed to save you time, money, and stress without compromising quality.

Book Slab Leak Repair in Sarasota & Tampa, FL

Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric has been serving Florida homeowners for over 50 years, earning the trust of more than 60,000 satisfied customers. From transparent communication to lasting repairs, our commitment to excellence shows in everything we do. We’re proud to back our work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and our Straight Forward Pricing Guide™, so you always know the cost before any work begins.

With same-day appointments, no overtime charges, and service hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week, we make it easy to get help when you need it most. It’s no wonder our company maintains a 4.7-star Google rating from homeowners throughout Sarasota and Tampa.

Contact Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric online today to schedule professional slab leak repair!

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes slab leaks under my home?

Slab leaks often occur due to corrosion, shifting soil, or vibration from water flow that wears down pipes over time. In Florida, mineral-heavy water and high humidity can accelerate corrosion, making older copper pipes particularly vulnerable.

How do plumbers locate slab leaks?

Acree’s plumbers use advanced electronic listening devices, infrared imaging, and pressure testing to detect leaks beneath the slab with precision without tearing up your floors. These tools allow us to find even the smallest leaks quickly and efficiently.

Can slab leaks lead to foundation damage?

Yes. When water continuously leaks under your home, it can erode the soil beneath your foundation. Over time, this may cause cracks, uneven floors, or even structural instability. Prompt repairs are essential to prevent expensive foundation damage.

How long does slab leak repair take?

The timeline depends on the severity and location of the leak. Minor leaks may be repaired in a single day, while more extensive damage or repiping projects can take longer. Acree’s team works efficiently to restore your home as quickly as possible.

Does homeowners’ insurance cover slab leaks?

Coverage varies by policy. Many homeowners’ insurance plans cover the resulting water damage but not the cost of accessing or repairing the pipe itself. It’s best to review your policy and consult with your insurance provider for clarification.