Slab Leak Detection for Strata Buildings
Non-destructive slab leak detection using acoustic sensors, thermal imaging, and moisture mapping to locate under-slab plumbing failures and foundation water intrusion.
Slab Leaks in Multi-Unit Buildings
Slab leaks—water escaping from plumbing embedded in or beneath concrete floor slabs—are among the most challenging leaks to locate and repair. In strata buildings, these leaks can affect ground-floor units, parkade levels, and any floor where plumbing runs through the concrete structure.
Because concrete slabs are expensive to open and repair, accurate leak localization is critical. StrataLeak.ca uses specialized non-destructive testing to pinpoint slab leak locations before any concrete cutting begins.
Types of Slab Leaks We Detect
Our Detection Methods
Acoustic Leak Detection
Specialized ground microphones and listening equipment detect the sound of water escaping from pressurized pipes beneath concrete. This technology can locate leaks through several inches of concrete slab.
Thermal Imaging
FLIR thermal cameras detect temperature differentials in floor surfaces caused by water flow beneath the slab. Hot water leaks and cold water leaks both create distinctive thermal signatures.
Moisture Mapping
Surface moisture meters and relative humidity testing identify areas of elevated moisture in concrete slabs, helping to define the extent of water migration from the leak source.
Pressure Testing
When appropriate, we can isolate and pressure test specific plumbing runs to confirm whether leaks exist and quantify the rate of water loss.
Why Accurate Localization Matters
Cutting into concrete slabs is expensive, disruptive, and irreversible. Inaccurate leak localization can result in unnecessary concrete removal, extended repair timelines, and costs that quickly escalate beyond initial estimates.
Our non-destructive testing identifies the leak location before any concrete is cut, allowing repair contractors to plan precise, targeted access that minimizes disruption and cost.
Service Areas
We provide slab leak detection throughout Metro Vancouver and British Columbia, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, New Westminster, and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes slab leaks in strata buildings?
Slab leaks typically result from corrosion of embedded copper pipes, movement causing pipe stress and fractures, poor original installation, or ground water pressure forcing moisture through the concrete. In older buildings, original plumbing materials may be approaching the end of their service life.
How do you detect leaks under concrete slabs?
We use acoustic leak detection equipment that can hear water escaping under pressure through concrete, thermal imaging to detect temperature changes caused by water flow, and moisture meters to identify elevated moisture levels in slab surfaces. These non-destructive methods locate leaks without unnecessary concrete cutting.
Are slab leaks covered by strata insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy terms and the specific cause of the leak. Sudden and accidental pipe failures are often covered, while gradual deterioration may not be. Our investigation documents the leak cause, which helps inform coverage determinations.
Schedule Slab Leak Detection
Contact us for professional slab leak investigation in your strata or condo building.