Some leak detection can be DIY. Most can't. Here's how to know the difference.
What you can DIY
Visual inspection of exposed pipes, checking for toilet leaks (dye test), monitoring your water meter for usage changes, listening for obvious drips or running water.
What you need a professional for
Finding leaks behind finished walls/ceilings, locating slab leaks, detecting underground pipe leaks, confirming the exact source for insurance claims, leaks that multiple people have looked for and missed.
The cost of DIY misdiagnosis
Opening the wrong wall: $500-$1,500 to repair. Calling a plumber who can't find the leak: $200-$500 service call. Dry rot from a leak that went undetected: $2,000-$10,000. Total cost of finding vs not finding: 10-100x difference.
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