How Long Do Detection and Repair Take for a Slab Leak?
Wondering how long does slab leak repair take? Most jobs are done fast: our leak check takes 1 to 3 hours, and most fixes are done in a day or two. The exact time rests on the fix your home needs. Spot fixes are the fastest. Reroutes and tunnels take longer. Here is what to expect from each.
It all starts with our visit. We find the leak on that same trip. You get a fix quote before we leave. After that, the time it takes rests on the fix your home needs. Some fixes are done in days. Bigger jobs need more planning. You will know the plan before we start.
How Long Does the Detection Visit Take?
Our leak check takes one to three hours. In that time, we run a meter check, pressure tests, and sound and heat scans. You get the exact spot and a fix quote before we leave. No wait of days for results.
We keep the visit short on purpose. Our tools do the hard work, not guesswork. Once we mark the spot, you can choose your fix with real facts in hand.
More on the visit is on our slab leak detection page. Still hope the leak might fix itself? Read will a slab leak fix itself — the short answer is no.
How Long Does Slab Leak Repair Take by Method?
Every home is different. But these ranges hold true for most jobs.
| Repair option | Typical timeline | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Spot repair | Often a day or two | Open one small area and fix the broken section |
| Pipe reroute | Often a few days | Run a new line up and around the slab |
| Tunneling | Often a few days | Dig under the slab and repair from below |
| Epoxy lining | Often a day or two | Coat the inside of the pipe to seal the leak |
| Whole-home repipe | Often about a week | Replace the full pipe system |
These are rough ranges, not promises. Your home’s layout sets the real plan. These prices are national estimates as of 2026. Spot repair: $1,500–$4,500. Reroute: $3,500–$7,000. Tunneling: $3,500–$8,000. Epoxy lining: $3,000–$6,000. Whole-home repipe: $4,500–$15,000.
We walk you through which fix fits your leak. We tell you how long it will take in your home.
What Can Stretch a Slab Leak Job Longer?
A few things can add time. More than one leak takes longer than one. Pipes that are hard to reach slow the work down. Permits can add days in some areas. Wet areas must dry out too. The EPA says to dry them in 24 to 48 hours to help stop mold growth. We take that step before we close things up.
Hidden harm can also add time. If water has been leaking for months, the soil or base under it may need work too. We flag this on our visit. There are no surprises mid-fix.
Does a bigger home always take longer? Not always. The pipe layout matters more than the square footage.
Can our technicians work in bad weather? Most slab leak work happens indoors, so weather rarely slows us down.
Will I be without water the whole time? No. Water is usually off only during the active repair work itself.
Do we give a timeline before work starts? Yes. Your technician walks you through the expected schedule before any work begins.
Can We Work Around Your Schedule?
Yes. We are open 24/7. Night and weekend visits are normal for us. Our leak check takes one to three hours. It fits in a morning or afternoon. For fixes, we plan the work around your day. We keep the water off only as long as needed.
Need it done fast? Simple spot fixes can start within days of the check. Bigger jobs get set for a time that suits you. You stay in charge of the plan.
Want a timeline for your home? Call Nova Slab Leak Detection at (833) 542-3027. We answer around the clock, all year. For more quick answers, visit our slab leak FAQs.
FAQs
How fast can our technicians come out?
We are open 24/7 in all 50 states and Washington, DC. Call and we will find the soonest slot for you.
Does detection happen the same day as repair?
Sometimes. Simple spot fixes can start right after the check. Bigger jobs get set for after your quote.
How long does a reroute keep my water off?
Water is off while we do the work only. Not for the whole job.
Can I stay home during the repair?
Most times, yes. We will tell you if any part needs you out.
What slows down a tunneling job?
Soil type, depth, and how far we must tunnel under the slab.
Do holidays or weekends change the timeline?
No. We work nights, weekends, and holidays. The plan stays the same.