Few things are more alarming than an unexplained spike in your water bill. If your usage hasn't changed but your costs have shot up, a hidden leak is the most likely culprit. This is often the first and only sign homeowners get, making it crucial to understand how to tell if a pipe burst underground before the damage gets worse. This problem won't fix itself; that leaking pipe is wasting money and water 24/7 while silently threatening your property's foundation and landscaping. Here, we’ll cover the definitive signs of an underground leak and explain the immediate steps you should take to protect your home and your wallet.

Key Takeaways

Know the Warning Signs of a Hidden Leak: Pay attention to changes on your property, such as new soggy patches in the lawn, a sudden drop in water pressure, or an unexpectedly high water bill, as these are the most common clues of an underground burst pipe.
Take Immediate Steps to Control the Damage: If you suspect a leak, your first move should be to shut off your home's main water supply. This single action contains the problem and prevents further water damage while you wait for professional help.
Rely on Modern Diagnostics to Save Your Yard: Professionals use advanced tools like HD video cameras and electronic leak detectors to find the exact location of a burst pipe, ensuring a faster, more accurate repair without unnecessary digging.

How to Spot an Underground Pipe Burst

An underground pipe burst is one of those sneaky problems that can cause major headaches before you even know it’s there. Because the pipes are buried, you can’t see the leak directly. Instead, you have to become a bit of a detective, looking for subtle clues your property might be giving you. Ignoring these signs can lead to serious property damage, from a ruined lawn to a compromised foundation. The good news is that if you know what to look for, you can catch the problem early. Pay close attention to any sudden changes around your home—they’re often the first indication that something is wrong beneath the surface.

Look for Puddles and Wet Spots

One of the most obvious signs of a broken underground pipe is a soggy, perpetually damp patch in your yard. If it hasn’t rained recently but you’re finding mysterious puddles or areas of mushy ground, that water is likely coming from below. The water from the burst pipe saturates the soil and eventually seeps up to the surface. You might also notice that a specific area of your lawn is suddenly much greener and lusher than the rest. While it might look nice, this is often due to the constant "watering" from the leak. These wet spots are a direct signal that you have a water line break that needs immediate attention from a professional.

Check for a Spike in Your Water Bill

Your water bill is a great tool for spotting hidden leaks. If you open your bill and are shocked by a sudden, unexplained increase, it’s time to investigate. A single leaking pipe can waste thousands of litres of water over a short period, sending your utility costs through the roof. Before you panic, think about your recent water usage—did you have guests, fill a pool, or water the lawn more than usual? If the answer is no, then a hidden leak is the most likely culprit. This is a clear sign that you need a professional to perform plumbing repairs and locate the source of the water loss.

Notice a Drop in Water Pressure

Have you noticed your shower feeling more like a weak drizzle than a powerful spray? A sudden and persistent drop in water pressure throughout your home is a classic symptom of an underground leak. When a pipe bursts, a significant amount of water escapes before it ever reaches your faucets and appliances. This diversion of water means there’s less pressure to go around for your daily needs. If you’re experiencing this, especially if it’s accompanied by any of the other signs on this list, it’s a strong indication that a main water line is compromised and requires a professional diagnosis.

Listen for Strange Plumbing Noises

Sometimes, you can hear a leak even if you can’t see it. When all the water in your house is turned off, listen closely to your pipes. Do you hear any unusual sounds like hissing, gurgling, or bubbling? These noises can be caused by air entering the pipe through the crack or break, or by water continuously running through the damaged section. The sound might be faint and easy to miss, so it’s best to listen when your home is quiet. These auditory clues are a sure sign that something isn’t right within your plumbing system, and a drain and sewer specialist can use diagnostic tools to confirm the issue.

What Are the Signs in Your Yard?

Sometimes, the most obvious clues of an underground pipe burst aren't inside your house at all. Your yard can tell you a lot about what’s happening with the water lines running beneath it. If you notice any of these changes, it’s worth paying close attention, as they could be early warnings of a bigger problem.

Unusually Green or Uneven Patches of Grass

Have you noticed a patch of grass that looks suspiciously lush and green compared to the rest of your lawn? While it might look nice, it could be a red flag. An underground water leak can act like a personal sprinkler system for one specific area, causing the grass there to grow much faster and more vibrantly. This is especially noticeable during the dry Okanagan summers when the rest of your lawn might be looking a bit thirsty. If one spot stays stubbornly green without any help from you, it’s a strong sign that a pipe is leaking beneath the surface.

Soft, Eroding Soil

A hidden leak will continuously saturate the ground, turning firm soil into a soft, spongy mess. You might find soggy spots in your yard even when it hasn’t rained or the sprinklers haven’t run. In more serious cases, you may see small sinkholes or indentations forming as the water erodes the soil. These damp areas are often located directly above the broken pipe. Ignoring them can lead to significant landscaping damage and create unstable ground. If you find a mysterious puddle or a patch of mushy ground, it’s time to investigate your underground plumbing.

Cracks in Your Driveway or Foundation

This is one of the more serious signs of an underground leak. The constant moisture from a broken pipe can destabilize the soil supporting your home's foundation, driveway, or walkways. As the ground softens and shifts, it can no longer support the heavy weight above it, leading to new cracks in the concrete or asphalt. While small cracks can happen over time, sudden or rapidly expanding ones are a major cause for concern. Addressing the leak quickly is essential to prevent further, more costly structural damage to your property.

Warmer Spots on the Ground in Winter

If you have a leak in a hot water line, you might notice some strange things happening in your yard during the colder months. The leaking hot water will warm the ground directly above it. This can cause snow to melt in a specific line or patch, or prevent frost from forming there when the rest of your yard is white. While it’s a more subtle sign, a consistently thawed spot in an otherwise frozen landscape is a clear indicator of a hot water leak underground. Professionals often use thermal imaging cameras to spot these temperature differences and pinpoint the leak's location.

Musty Smells or More Pests

Your nose can be a great tool for leak detection. Persistent, musty odors or the smell of sewage in your yard often point to a broken water or sewer line. The saturated soil from a leak creates a damp environment perfect for mold and mildew growth, which produces that distinct earthy smell. This excess moisture also attracts pests. Insects like mosquitoes and cockroaches, as well as rodents, are drawn to reliable water sources. If you notice an increase in pest activity combined with a foul odor, a broken pipe could be the culprit. It might be time for a professional drain and sewer inspection.

How to Use Your Water Meter to Find Leaks

Your water meter is one of the best tools you have for detecting hidden leaks. Before you start worrying, a simple test at the meter can tell you if you have a leak and even help narrow down its location. It’s a quick, non-invasive check that every homeowner in the Okanagan should know how to do. Follow these simple steps to use your meter as a leak detective. If you find something, don't panic. Identifying the problem is the first step, and professional help is available to handle the rest.

Shut Off All Water in Your Home

First, you need to make sure no water is being used inside or outside your home. This creates a baseline so you can be certain any water flow is from a leak, not normal use. Go through your house and turn off every faucet, shower, and appliance that uses water. This includes your washing machine, dishwasher, and even the ice maker in your fridge. Don't forget to check outdoor taps and irrigation systems. Once you're confident everything is off, you're ready for the next step.

Find and Read Your Water Meter

Now, head outside to find your water meter. It’s typically located in a concrete or plastic box in the ground near the street or sidewalk, marked with "Water" on the lid. You might need a screwdriver to carefully lift the lid. Once open, you may need to flip up a protective cap on the meter's face. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the dial. You'll see a large sweep hand that measures water flow and a series of numbers that track total usage, similar to an odometer in a car.

Watch the Leak Indicator

This is the moment of truth. With all the water off in your house, the meter shouldn't be moving at all. Look closely for a small leak indicator. On older analog meters, this is usually a small red triangle or a silver wheel that spins when water is flowing. On newer digital meters, you might need to shine a flashlight on the display to activate it; look for a flashing number or flow icon. If that little indicator is moving, even very slowly, you have a leak somewhere in your system.

Do a Final Check with the Main Valve Closed

If the meter shows a leak, you can do one more test to figure out if it's inside your house or in the underground service line. Find your home's main water shut-off valve—it's usually in the basement, a crawl space, or a utility closet where the water line enters your house. Turn it off completely. Now, go back to the water meter and check the leak indicator again. If it has stopped moving, the leak is inside your home. If it's still spinning, the leak is outside, in the pipe between the meter and your house. At this point, it's time to call for professional plumbing services to pinpoint and fix the problem.

Suspect a Burst Pipe? Here's What to Do Now

Okay, take a deep breath. Realizing you might have a burst pipe underground is stressful, but acting quickly can make a huge difference. Taking the right steps right away helps protect your home from further damage and gets the problem solved faster. Focus on these four immediate actions to get the situation under control.

Turn Off Your Main Water Supply

Your first move is to stop the flow of water. Shutting off your home's main water supply is the most effective way to prevent more water from escaping the broken pipe and saturating your yard or foundation. You can usually find the main shut-off valve in your basement, crawl space, or a utility closet near where the main water line enters your house. It will likely have a wheel-style handle or a lever. Turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed. This single step contains the problem while you figure out what to do next.

Take Photos of the Damage

Once the water is off, grab your phone and document everything you see. Take clear pictures and videos of the soggy patches in your yard, any new cracks in your foundation or driveway, and any visible water damage inside your home. If you can, also take a photo of your water meter reading. This evidence is incredibly useful when you file an insurance claim and helps our technicians understand the situation before we even arrive. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of hassle later on.

Check for Electrical and Safety Hazards

This next step is non-negotiable and crucial for your safety. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you have standing water near any electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker box, do not touch anything. Go directly to your home’s main circuit breaker and shut off the power to any affected areas. If you are unsure which breakers control which areas, it’s safest to shut off the main power to the entire house. Your safety is the top priority, so never risk contact with wet electrical components.

Call for Emergency Plumbing Help

With the immediate dangers managed, it’s time to call in the experts. An underground leak requires specialized equipment to locate and repair without destroying your property. This isn't a DIY job. At TruFinity, we provide 24/7 emergency service because we know these problems don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. We serve the entire Okanagan region, from Penticton to Vernon, with a guaranteed 45-minute emergency response time. Calling a professional immediately ensures the leak is found quickly and repaired correctly, protecting your home’s value and giving you peace of mind.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Suspected Leak

It’s tempting to hope that a soggy patch in the yard or a slight drop in water pressure will resolve itself. But when it comes to underground pipes, waiting is one of the worst things you can do. A small, hidden leak can quickly spiral into a major headache, causing serious and expensive damage to your property. Addressing the signs early is the best way to protect your home and your peace of mind.

Risk of Damage to Your Home's Foundation

An underground pipe leak constantly saturates the soil around your home. Over time, this excess water can erode the dirt that supports your foundation, causing it to shift, settle, or crack. What starts as a simple plumbing issue can become a structural nightmare, threatening the integrity of your entire house. Unrepaired pipes can lead to severe property damage that goes far beyond a simple fix. Protecting your foundation means acting quickly at the first sign of trouble with professional plumbing repairs to stop the leak at its source.

Potential for Mold and Health Issues

Moisture from a hidden leak doesn’t always stay outside. It can seep through your foundation and into your basement or crawl space, creating a damp, humid environment perfect for mold and mildew. If not addressed, a burst pipe can lead to extensive water damage and mold growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems for your family. Keeping your home dry is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality. A small leak can compromise your home’s environment, making it crucial to resolve the issue before it affects your family’s well-being.

Skyrocketing Water Bills and Repair Costs

A pipe that’s leaking underground is like leaving a faucet running 24/7—and you’re paying for every drop. One of the first signs homeowners notice is a sudden, unexplained spike in their water bill. While the cost of wasted water adds up, it’s often just the tip of the iceberg. The longer a leak continues, the more extensive the damage becomes, leading to more complex and costly repairs. Taking immediate action not only saves water but also helps you avoid a much larger repair bill down the road.

Damage to Your Yard and Landscaping

You’ve put time and effort into your yard, and an underground leak can ruin it in a hurry. The constant flow of water can create sinkholes, wash away topsoil, and kill your lawn and garden beds. It can also erode the ground beneath patios, walkways, and driveways, causing them to crack and become uneven. Spotting a burst pipe early is vital to avoiding big water damage and preserving your landscaping. With modern diagnostic tools, we can often find the problem without having to dig up your entire yard.

When Is It Time to Call a Professional?

Some plumbing issues are subtle, but others are clear signals that you need an expert's help right away. An underground pipe burst falls squarely into the second category. Trying to diagnose or fix it yourself can lead to more significant property damage and higher costs down the road. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s a definite sign to put down the wrench and pick up the phone. At TruFinity, we understand the anxiety that comes with a major plumbing emergency, which is why we offer a 24/7 emergency response with guaranteed 45-minute response times to give you peace of mind when you need it most. Our goal is to provide "True Service, Infinite Care," especially when you're facing a stressful situation like a hidden leak.

You See Major Flooding

This one is hard to miss. If you discover standing water in your yard, basement, or crawl space that wasn't there before, you're likely dealing with a significant leak or a burst pipe. These puddles are more than just a mess; they can weaken your home's foundation, damage landscaping, and create a breeding ground for pests and mold. When you see major flooding, the situation is urgent. The first step is to shut off your main water supply, and the second is to call for emergency plumbing help immediately. A professional can quickly locate the source of the leak and begin repairs to prevent further damage to your property.

Your Water Pressure Is Gone

You turn on the kitchen faucet to wash some vegetables, but all you get is a weak trickle. A sudden, unexplained drop in water pressure throughout your home is a classic symptom of a major leak in your main water line. When a pipe bursts underground, a large volume of water escapes before it ever reaches your taps, causing that frustrating drop in pressure. While a clogged aerator can affect a single faucet, a system-wide pressure loss points to a much bigger problem. Don't just live with it—this is a clear signal that your plumbing system needs a professional inspection.

You Notice Cracks or Pipe Damage

Sometimes, the evidence of an underground leak shows up in the structure of your home itself. Water from a burst pipe can saturate the ground, causing the soil to shift and settle. This can lead to new cracks appearing in your home's foundation, driveway, or walkways. Inside, you might see signs of water damage like stains on walls or ceilings, peeling paint, or warped flooring, even if there's no obvious source. These are serious red flags that water is getting somewhere it shouldn't be. A professional can trace these symptoms back to the source and address the underlying plumbing issue before the structural damage worsens.

You're Not Sure and Want to Avoid Mistakes

Maybe you have a soggy patch of grass but no flooding, or your water bill is just a little higher than usual. When the signs are subtle, it’s easy to second-guess yourself. However, ignoring a potential leak out of uncertainty can be a costly mistake. A small, hidden leak can cause slow, steady damage over time. If you have any suspicion that a pipe has burst, it's always best to consult a professional. We use advanced tools like HD video camera inspections to pinpoint the exact location of a problem without any guesswork, saving you from unnecessary stress and potential damage.

How We Pinpoint Underground Leaks

Guessing where a leak is located isn't part of our process. When you're dealing with the stress of a potential underground pipe burst, the last thing you need is unnecessary digging that destroys your yard. That’s why we use advanced diagnostic tools to find the exact source of the problem with precision and minimal disruption. Our approach is built on a foundation of "True Service, Infinite Care," which means we use our expertise to protect your property while solving the issue efficiently. We believe in showing you exactly what’s wrong so you can make informed decisions.

Using HD Video Camera Inspections

To get a clear look inside your pipes, we use high-definition waterproof cameras. Think of it as a plumbing colonoscopy. We guide a small, flexible camera through your sewer or water lines to get a real-time view of what’s happening underground. This technology allows us to visually confirm the exact location of cracks, root intrusions, blockages, or collapsed sections of pipe. You see what we see, taking all the guesswork out of the diagnosis. This non-invasive method is one of the most effective ways to inspect your drain and sewer lines without having to dig a single trench.

Applying Electronic Leak Detection

Sometimes, the problem isn't visible—it's audible. For water lines under pressure, we use sophisticated electronic leak detection equipment. These tools are designed to listen for the very specific sound frequency of water escaping from a pipe, even through layers of soil, concrete, and flooring. Our trained technicians use sensitive ground microphones and sensors to trace the sound to its source, pinpointing the leak with remarkable accuracy. This acoustic method is a cornerstone of our plumbing repair services because it allows us to find hidden leaks without destructive exploration, saving you time, money, and mess.

Finding Leaks Without Damaging Your Property

Your home and yard are your sanctuary, and our goal is to keep them that way. Our entire diagnostic philosophy centers on using non-invasive methods first. By combining tools like video cameras and acoustic sensors, we can create a detailed map of the problem before we ever break ground. This careful, technology-first approach minimizes property disruption and ensures that when we do need to make a repair, we are working in the exact right spot. It’s a smarter, more respectful way to handle a stressful situation, preserving your landscaping and foundation while we work to fix the pipe.

Clearing Blockages with Hydro-Jetting

Often, an underground pipe issue is caused or worsened by a severe blockage. To handle the toughest clogs, we use industrial-grade hydro-jetting equipment that blasts water at up to 4,000 PSI. This powerful stream of water can obliterate stubborn obstructions like tree roots, grease buildup, and solid waste that a typical drain snake can’t touch. Hydro-jetting not only clears the blockage but also scours the pipe walls clean. This makes it an excellent first step before a camera inspection, as it provides a clear view to identify any underlying cracks or damage that the blockage was hiding.

Your Repair Options: What to Expect

Once we’ve pinpointed the source of the leak, the next step is getting it fixed. The thought of digging up your yard can be stressful, but modern plumbing offers some incredible solutions that often don’t require major excavation. The best approach always depends on the location of the pipe, the extent of the damage, and the type of soil on your property. Our team will walk you through the best options for your specific situation, explaining the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision.

At TruFinity, we use two primary methods for underground pipe repair: trenchless "no-dig" technology and traditional excavation. Our goal is always to choose the most effective, least invasive method possible. We combine our expertise with advanced technology to resolve the issue efficiently, minimizing the disruption to your home and daily life. We’ll provide a clear, transparent quote before any work begins, so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.

Trenchless "No-Dig" Repairs

Trenchless pipe repair is a game-changer for homeowners. Instead of digging a large trench across your lawn or driveway, this method allows us to repair the pipe from the inside out. We typically access the pipe through two small entry points. From there, we can insert a durable, epoxy-saturated liner that hardens in place, creating a brand-new pipe within the old one. This trenchless technology is less intrusive, preserves your landscaping, and is often completed much faster than traditional methods. It’s a powerful solution for fixing cracks, holes, and root intrusion with minimal fuss.

Traditional Excavation Repairs

Sometimes, a pipe is too collapsed or severely damaged for a trenchless solution. In these cases, traditional excavation is the most reliable path forward. This process involves carefully digging a trench to expose the damaged section of the pipe so we can physically cut it out and replace it. While it is more disruptive to your yard, our team takes great care to perform the excavation safely and efficiently. We handle everything from digging to backfilling, ensuring the job is done right. TruFinity provides full excavation services when they are the necessary and correct solution for a lasting repair.

Understanding the Repair Process

No matter which method we use, the process begins with a thorough assessment. Our first step is always to use an HD waterproof camera to get a clear look inside your pipes. This allows us to confirm the exact location and severity of the break. Next, we thoroughly clean the pipe, often using high-pressure hydro-jetting to clear away any debris, roots, or blockages. Once the pipe is clean, we proceed with the repair—either by inserting a trenchless liner or excavating to replace the damaged section. You can learn more about our drain and sewer video inspections and repair process on our services page.

Our 90-Day Service Guarantee

We believe in the quality of our work and want you to have complete peace of mind. That’s why we stand behind our services with strong guarantees. For example, we offer a 90-day guarantee on drain cleaning to ensure the problem is fully resolved. This commitment to "True Service, Infinite Care" means we’re not finished until you are completely satisfied with the repair. When you work with TruFinity, you can trust that we’re dedicated to providing a durable, long-lasting solution that protects your home and property.

How to Prevent Future Pipe Problems

Dealing with a burst pipe is stressful, but the good news is that you can take steps to prevent it from happening again. A little proactive care goes a long way in protecting your home and property. By staying on top of your plumbing’s health, you can avoid the anxiety and expense of another underground emergency. Here are a few key strategies to keep your pipes in top condition for years to come.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Think of a plumbing inspection as a regular health check-up for your home. Catching a small issue early is always better than dealing with a major failure down the line. During a professional inspection, a technician can identify corrosion, tiny leaks, or pressure issues you wouldn't be able to see. For example, our team can use HD video cameras to look inside your pipes and spot potential trouble spots without any guesswork. This is especially important for older homes in the Okanagan. A yearly inspection can give you peace of mind and a clear picture of your system's health, helping you budget for future maintenance instead of being hit with a surprise repair.

Follow Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Living in the Okanagan means preparing your home for distinct seasons. Before winter arrives, disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses to prevent faucets from freezing and cracking. If you have any exposed pipes in crawl spaces or unheated areas, insulating them is a simple and effective way to prevent a freeze. During a severe cold snap, letting a faucet drip slowly can keep water moving and reduce the risk of a pipe bursting. Sealing any cracks or gaps in your foundation not only helps with insulation but also keeps cold air away from your plumbing. These small seasonal habits are crucial for maintaining your plumbing system and avoiding weather-related damage.

Insist on Quality Materials and Installation

The materials used in your plumbing system and the quality of the installation play a huge role in its longevity. While it can be tempting to choose a cheaper option, low-quality pipes and fittings are more prone to corrosion and failure. Proper installation is just as critical. For instance, sudden changes in water pressure, known as water hammer, can stress your pipes over time. A professional plumber will install components like air chambers to absorb this shock. When you invest in quality materials and expert workmanship, you're investing in a reliable system that’s less likely to cause problems, protecting your home's value and your peace of mind.

Know the Early Warning Signs

One of the best preventative tools you have is your own awareness. By now, you know what to look for: a sudden spike in your water bill, a noticeable drop in water pressure, damp spots in your yard, or the sound of running water when everything is turned off. Don't dismiss these signs. Recognizing them early and calling for help can be the difference between a minor fix and a major excavation project. If something feels off with your plumbing, trust your gut. A quick professional diagnosis can confirm if there's an issue and address it before it escalates into a full-blown burst pipe emergency.

Managing Costs with TruFinity's Membership

An unexpected underground pipe burst is one of the most stressful situations a homeowner can face. Beyond the immediate chaos, there's the looming question: "How much is this going to cost?" The uncertainty can be overwhelming. While every situation is unique, you can take steps to manage the financial impact.

At TruFinity, we believe in transparent solutions that provide peace of mind. Our TruLoyalty Membership program is designed to help you prepare for the unexpected, turning a potential financial crisis into a manageable problem. It’s a proactive way to protect your home and your budget.

What Influences Repair Costs?

The final bill for an underground pipe repair isn't a one-size-fits-all number. Several key factors come into play, which is why a professional diagnosis is so important. The cost often depends on the pipe's location and how difficult it is to access—a pipe under a driveway will be more complex to repair than one under a soft lawn. The length of the damaged section, the pipe material, and the specific repair method required also significantly influence the final price. Our technicians will always provide a clear, upfront explanation of the work needed so you can make an informed decision without any surprises.

How Our TruLoyalty Memberships Help You Save

This is where planning ahead really pays off. Our TruLoyalty Membership is designed to take the sting out of emergency repair costs. Members receive exclusive benefits, including waived diagnostic fees and a 15% discount on repairs. In an emergency, those savings add up quickly. Plus, you’ll never pay after-hours rates, which provides huge relief when a pipe bursts on a weekend or in the middle of the night. Think of it as a safety net for your home’s essential systems, giving you financial predictability when you need it most. It’s a straightforward way to keep more money in your pocket while getting the expert help you need.

Get Priority Scheduling for Emergencies

When water is flooding your yard, every minute counts. The longer you wait for help, the more extensive (and expensive) the damage can become. As a TruLoyalty member, you go to the front of the line. You get priority scheduling for emergency calls, ensuring one of our Red Seal Plumbers gets to your home as quickly as possible. This rapid response can be the difference between a contained issue and a major landscaping or foundation repair. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about actively minimizing damage and protecting your property. When you need us most, our emergency service is there for you, faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to repair a burst underground pipe? The cost can vary quite a bit because every situation is different. The final price depends on factors like where the pipe is located, how deep it is, and which repair method is best. A leak under a simple patch of lawn will be less complex than one under your concrete driveway. We always provide a clear, upfront quote after our initial diagnosis so you know exactly what to expect before we begin any work. Our TruLoyalty members also receive a 15% discount on repairs, which can make a significant difference.

Will my homeowner's insurance cover this kind of damage? Insurance coverage for underground pipe bursts really depends on your specific policy. Generally, many policies cover the resulting water damage to your home, but not the cost of repairing the pipe itself. The best first step is to call your insurance agent as soon as you suspect a problem. They can explain your coverage in detail. Remember to take plenty of photos and videos of the damage, as this documentation is essential for any claim you might file.

How can I tell if the leak is from a sewer line versus a main water line? There are a few key differences to look for. A leak in your main water line involves clean, pressurized water, so you'll likely notice a significant drop in water pressure, a spike in your water bill, and clean puddles or soggy spots in your yard. A broken sewer line, on the other hand, deals with wastewater. The most obvious signs are foul odors in your yard, slow drains or backups inside your house, and patches of grass that are exceptionally green and lush from the unintended fertilizer.

How long does an underground pipe repair usually take? The timeline depends entirely on the repair method we use. Modern trenchless repairs, where we fix the pipe from the inside, are surprisingly fast and can often be completed in less than a day with minimal disruption to your yard. If the pipe is severely collapsed and requires traditional excavation, the process will take longer. Our team will always give you a clear timeline along with your quote so you can plan accordingly.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my pipes from bursting in the first place? Absolutely. Proactive care is your best defense. We recommend scheduling regular plumbing inspections, especially for older homes, to catch corrosion or weak spots early. Simple seasonal maintenance, like disconnecting outdoor hoses before the first Okanagan frost, is also crucial. Most importantly, pay attention to the early warning signs we discussed. Addressing a small drop in water pressure or a minor soggy spot right away can prevent a full-blown emergency down the road.

How to Tell if a Pipe Burst Underground (7 Signs)