Do I need to move out during slab leak repair?
Do I need to move out during slab leak repair? In most cases, no. We work around your day. Most repairs end with you still at home. You almost never need to move out. We tell you up front if your case is the rare one that needs it.
What is each repair method like for daily life?
Each leak needs its own fix. Here is what each one means for you at home. All prices below are national estimates as of 2026.
| Method | What happens | Daily-life impact |
|---|---|---|
| Spot repair ($1,500-$4,500) | We open a small section of floor over the leak and fix the pipe | Some noise and dust for a day; one area blocked off |
| Reroute ($3,500-$7,000) | We run a new pipe line through walls or attic, bypassing the old line | Little mess; workers in and out for a day or two |
| Tunneling ($3,500-$8,000) | We dig under the slab from outside to reach the pipe | Work stays mostly outside; some noise from equipment |
Spot repair is the most hands-on inside your home. It stays in one area. A reroute often makes the least mess. We leave the old pipe alone. Tunneling stays under the house. It keeps clear of your living space.
Which method is least disruptive? Rerouting usually is. Your floors stay intact, and the work happens in walls or the attic.
Will there be dust and noise? Some, yes. Your technician seals off the work area and cleans up when done.
How long will my water be shut off?
Usually only for hours, not days. We need the water off while we cut and join pipe. Then we turn it back on to test. We tell you the shutoff time before work starts. You can plan your day around it.
Can I shower and cook during the repair? Plan around the shutoff window your technician gives you. Outside that window, normal use is fine.
Can I stay home with kids or pets?
Yes, in most cases. Keep kids and pets clear of the work area. It is for their safety. There will be some noise in the day. If naps are a worry, you can head out for a few hours. That is up to you, not a rule.
What if I rent my home?
Tell your landlord about the leak right away. Repairs are the owner’s job to set up and pay for. Keep a note of when you told them and what you saw. Laws vary by state. Check your local rules if you are not sure of your rights. Our page on slab leak renting and landlords has more detail.
Can I call you if I am a renter? Yes. We can detect and diagnose the leak, and your landlord can then approve the repair plan.
Does the repair come with a guarantee?
Yes. Read the full details on our guarantee page before work starts. If the covered work is not right, tell us. We will make it right. You can find more answers in our slab leak FAQs.
What if I find a new leak later? Call us at (833) 542-3027. We are open 24/7 and will check it out.
FAQs
Do I need to move out during slab leak repair?
Usually not. Most repairs let you stay home. Water is off only for hours. We warn you if your case is not the norm.
How long does a slab leak repair take?
Most take one to two days. Detection takes one to three hours in a single visit.
Will my floors be ruined by the repair?
Spot repair opens a small part of the floor. We patch it after. Reroutes and tunnels leave floors alone.
Can I sleep at home the night of the repair?
Yes. We do not work at night. Your home is safe and fine each evening.
What should I do before the technicians arrive?
Clear the work area. Move valuables. Plan for the water shutoff. That is all.
Is tunneling messy inside the house?
No. The tunnel runs under the slab from outside. The mess stays out of your home.