Oak MI Trusted Choice
Expert Leak Detection Services in Royal Oak, MI | My Drain Master
Find and Fix Hidden Leaks Fast—Before They Cost You Thousands
Got a water bill that suddenly jumped? Hearing water running when everything’s turned off? Spotting mysterious wet spots on your ceiling or floor? You’re not alone. Royal Oak homeowners deal with hidden leaks all the time, and the longer they go undetected, the worse—and more expensive—they get.
At My Drain Master, we help Royal Oak residents find and fix leaks quickly using advanced detection technology that doesn’t destroy your walls, floors, or yard. Whether you’re in Downtown Royal Oak, Memorial Park, or anywhere in Oakland County, we’re here to solve your leak problems before they turn into major water damage disasters.
Book Your Free Plumbing Consultation
Got a plumbing issue or need a quote? We’re here to help. Contact Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing today for a no-obligation consultation.
Why Leak Detection Matters in Royal Oak
Here’s the thing: most leaks don’t announce themselves with a dramatic burst pipe. They hide behind walls, under concrete slabs, and beneath your foundation, silently causing damage for weeks or months before you notice.
Royal Oak homes, especially those built in the 1950s through 1980s around Northwood and Kimball Park, often have aging plumbing systems. Copper pipes corrode, galvanized steel pipes rust from the inside out, and slab foundations develop hairline cracks that lead to serious leaks. Add in Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles, and you’ve got a recipe for plumbing problems.
The average hidden leak wastes 90 gallons per day. That’s not just wasted water—it’s mold growth, foundation damage, and sky-high utility bills. Most people don’t realize they have a problem until they see a $500 water bill or find water damage in their basement.
That’s where professional leak detection comes in.
How We Find Leaks Without Tearing Up Your Home
Forget the old-school method of cutting holes in walls and guessing. We use non-invasive leak detection technology that pinpoints exactly where your leak is—down to the square foot.
Our Leak Detection Process:
- Initial Assessment
We start by talking with you about what you’ve noticed. When did your water bill go up? Where do you hear running water? Any wet spots, musty odors, or warped flooring? These clues help us narrow down the search area.
- Water Meter Analysis
We check your water meter with all fixtures turned off. If it’s still moving, you’ve got a leak somewhere. This tells us how severe the problem is and helps us estimate water loss.
- Advanced Technology Inspection
This is where our equipment does the heavy lifting:
Acoustic Leak Detection – We use sensitive listening devices that pick up the sound of water escaping from pipes, even through concrete and behind walls. Water under pressure makes a specific frequency that our equipment detects.
Thermal Imaging Cameras – Infrared cameras show temperature differences in your walls, floors, and ceilings. Water leaks create cool spots that show up clearly on thermal imaging, helping us locate hidden moisture.
Video Camera Inspection – For sewer lines and drain pipes, we send a high-definition camera through your plumbing system. This lets us see cracks, blockages, and damaged pipe sections from the inside.
Pressure Testing Equipment – We isolate sections of your plumbing and test for pressure drops, which indicate leaks in that specific area.
Moisture Meters – These devices measure moisture levels in walls, floors, and ceilings, helping us track the extent of water damage.
- Pinpoint Location
Once we’ve identified the problem, we mark the exact location. No guesswork, no unnecessary demolition. You’ll know precisely where the leak is and what’s causing it.
- Repair Recommendations
We explain what we found, show you photos or video evidence, and give you honest repair options with upfront pricing. No surprises, no pressure.
Common Leak Locations We Handle
Slab Leak Detection
Many Royal Oak homes are built on concrete slab foundations. When pipes under the slab develop leaks, you might notice warm spots on your floor, increased water bills, or the sound of running water when everything’s off. Slab leaks are tricky because the pipes are literally buried under your foundation. We use acoustic detection and pressure testing to find these leaks without jackhammering your entire floor.
Behind Walls
Supply lines and drain pipes run through your walls. Leaks here often show up as wet spots, peeling paint, or water stains on your ceiling below. We use thermal imaging to see through your drywall and locate the problem without cutting exploratory holes everywhere.
Bathroom and Kitchen Plumbing
Toilet seals fail, faucet connections corrode, and supply lines wear out. These are some of the most common leak sources. We check all fixture connections, shut-off valves, and supply lines.
Water Heater Connections
Water heaters develop leaks at the tank itself or at connection points. A slow leak here can damage flooring and create mold problems in your basement or utility closet.
Basement Leaks
Basement leaks might come from plumbing or from foundation issues. We determine the source and help you understand whether you need plumbing repairs or foundation waterproofing.
Underground Water Line Leaks
The pipe connecting your home to the city water main can develop leaks. You might notice wet spots in your yard, a sudden drop in water pressure, or dirt in your water. We use tracer gas detection and acoustic methods to find underground leaks without digging up your entire lawn.
Signs You Need Leak Detection Services
Don’t wait until you’ve got standing water or major damage. Watch for these warning signs:
Your Water Bill Jumped
A sudden increase in your water bill with no change in usage is one of the clearest signs of a hidden leak. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons per week.
You Hear Running Water
If you hear water running through pipes when no fixtures are on, you’ve got a leak. This is especially noticeable at night when the house is quiet.
Wet Spots or Stains
Ceiling stains, wet carpet, damp spots on walls, or puddles that appear for no reason all point to hidden leaks.
Low Water Pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home can indicate a major leak in your main supply line.
Musty Odors
That damp, moldy smell isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a sign of hidden moisture. Leaks behind walls or under floors create perfect conditions for mold growth.
Warped Flooring or Buckling
Wood floors warp, tile becomes loose, and carpet stays damp when there’s a leak underneath. Don’t ignore these signs.
Foundation Cracks
Water from leaking pipes can erode soil under your foundation, leading to settling and cracks. This is especially common with slab leaks.
Your Water Meter Never Stops
Turn off all water in your house and check your meter. If the dial is still moving, you’re losing water somewhere.
Why Royal Oak Homeowners Choose My Drain Master
Licensed Michigan Master Plumbers
We’re not handymen dabbling in plumbing. Our technicians hold Michigan Master Plumber licenses and know Royal Oak’s plumbing systems inside and out.
Advanced Detection Technology
We’ve invested in professional-grade equipment that most plumbers don’t have. This means faster, more accurate leak detection with minimal disruption to your home.
Same-Day Service Available
Water damage gets worse by the hour. We offer same-day service for Royal Oak residents who need urgent leak detection.
Free Leak Detection Estimates
We’ll assess your situation and give you a clear estimate before we start any work. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Transparent, Upfront Pricing
You’ll know exactly what repairs cost before we start. We explain your options and let you make informed decisions.
Emergency 24/7 Availability
Leaks don’t wait for business hours. When you’ve got water spraying or a suspected major leak, we’re available around the clock.
Warranty on Repairs
We stand behind our work with warranties on repairs and services. If something isn’t right, we fix it.
Locally Owned and Operated
We live and work in Oakland County. When you call My Drain Master, you’re supporting a local business that cares about this community.
We Serve All of Royal Oak and Surrounding Areas
Our service trucks are all over Royal Oak, from the bustling restaurants on Main Street to the quiet residential streets near the Detroit Zoo. We know this area—the types of homes, the common plumbing issues, and the fastest routes to get to you quickly.
Royal Oak Neighborhoods We Serve: Downtown Royal Oak, Northwood, Memorial Park Area, Kimball Park, Normandy Oaks, and all surrounding areas along Woodward Avenue, 11 Mile Road, and 13 Mile Road.
We Also Serve Nearby Communities: Birmingham, Ferndale, Clawson, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Troy, Madison Heights, and Hazel Park. If you’re in Oakland County and need leak detection, we can help.
What Happens After We Find Your Leak?
Finding the leak is just the first step. Here’s what comes next:
We Show You the Evidence
You’ll see photos or video of the leak location and the damage. We explain what caused it and how serious it is.
We Explain Your Options
Sometimes a simple pipe repair is enough. Other times, you might need pipe replacement or repiping. We give you all the options with honest advice about what makes sense for your situation and budget.
We Provide Upfront Pricing
Before we do any repair work, you’ll get a detailed quote. We don’t believe in surprise charges.
We Complete Repairs Quickly
Most leak repairs can be done the same day or within 24 hours. We get your plumbing back to normal as quickly as possible.
We Clean Up
We treat your home with respect. That means protecting your floors, cleaning up debris, and leaving your space as neat as we found it.
The Real Cost of Ignoring Leaks
Let’s be honest—most people put off calling a plumber because they’re worried about the cost. But here’s what really happens when you ignore a leak:
A small leak that costs $300 to fix today turns into a $5,000 problem when it damages your foundation, ruins your hardwood floors, or requires mold remediation. Insurance companies often won’t cover water damage from slow leaks because they consider it maintenance that should have been caught earlier.
The water waste alone adds up. A dripping faucet wastes 3,000 gallons per year. A leaking toilet wastes up to 200 gallons per day. A hidden pipe leak can waste 90 gallons daily. That’s real money down the drain every month.
Then there’s the health issue. Mold from hidden leaks causes respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues—especially in children and elderly family members.
Getting a leak detected and fixed early is always cheaper than dealing with the aftermath.
Our Commitment to Royal Oak Homeowners
We’re not here to upsell you services you don’t need. Our job is to find your leak, explain what’s wrong, and give you honest options to fix it.
Every member of our team is background-checked, drug-tested, and trained in customer service. We show up on time, in clean uniforms, with marked trucks. We respect your home and your time.
When you call My Drain Master, you’re not getting a salesperson. You’re getting a skilled plumber who wants to solve your problem and earn your trust.
Ready to Find and Fix Your Leak?
Don’t let a hidden leak drain your wallet and damage your home. The sooner we find it, the less damage it causes and the lower your repair costs.
Call My Drain Master today for fast, professional leak detection in Royal Oak, MI.
We offer free estimates, same-day service, and emergency availability 24/7. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden wet spot, a climbing water bill, or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leak Detection in Royal Oak?
How much does leak detection cost in Royal Oak?
Leak detection typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on the complexity of your plumbing system and how difficult the leak is to locate. However, we offer free leak detection estimates, and the cost of detection is often waived when you choose us for the repair work. Considering that hidden leaks can waste hundreds of dollars in water every month and cause thousands in damage, professional detection pays for itself quickly. We give you upfront pricing before starting any work, so you’ll never face surprise charges.
How do you find leaks without destroying my walls or floors?
We use advanced non-invasive technology including acoustic leak detection, thermal imaging cameras, video camera inspection, and pressure testing equipment. These tools let us pinpoint leak locations without cutting exploratory holes in your walls or jackhammering your floors. We only open up the exact spot where the repair needs to happen, which saves you money on restoration costs and gets your home back to normal faster.
How long does leak detection take?
Most leak detection appointments take 1 to 3 hours, depending on your home’s size and plumbing complexity. Simple leaks in accessible areas might be found in under an hour. Hidden leaks in slab foundations or underground water lines might take longer. We work efficiently to find your leak as quickly as possible while being thorough enough not to miss anything. Once we locate the leak, we’ll give you a repair timeline right away.
Can you detect slab leaks under concrete foundations?
Yes, slab leak detection is one of our specialties. Royal Oak has many homes built on concrete slabs, and leaks under these foundations are more common than people think. We use specialized acoustic listening devices that detect the sound of water escaping from pipes under concrete, along with pressure testing to isolate which section of piping has the problem. We can pinpoint slab leaks without breaking up your entire floor, which keeps repair costs manageable.
Will my insurance cover leak detection and repairs?
Insurance coverage depends on your policy and the cause of the leak. Sudden, accidental leaks (like a burst pipe) are typically covered, while slow leaks from lack of maintenance often aren’t. Some policies cover the cost of accessing the leak (breaking through walls or floors) but not the plumbing repair itself. We recommend calling your insurance company after we identify the leak. We can provide documentation and photos to support your claim. Either way, we’ll work with you to make repairs affordable.
What’s the difference between a leak detection service and a regular plumber visit?
Regular plumbers can fix leaks they can see—a dripping faucet, a visible pipe leak, or a running toilet. Leak detection specialists have specialized training and expensive equipment specifically designed to find hidden leaks you can’t see. We can detect leaks behind walls, under slabs, underground, and in other locations that would require guessing and destructive exploratory work without proper equipment. If you know where your leak is, you might just need a repair. If you know you have a leak but can’t find it, that’s when you need professional leak detection.
How can I tell if I have a slab leak versus another type of leak?
Slab leaks have some telltale signs: warm or cold spots on your floor, the sound of running water coming from below, cracks in your flooring or walls, increased water bills, and low water pressure. However, these symptoms can overlap with other leak types. The only way to know for sure is professional leak detection. We can determine whether you’re dealing with a slab leak, a leak behind walls, or issues with fixtures or connections. Getting the right diagnosis means getting the right repair and not wasting money fixing the wrong thing.
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Contact Info
Location
33044 Mound Rd
Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Phone
586-942-3330
Our Services
Our Plumbing Services in Sterling Heights
Drain Cleaning
Clogged drains are more than just an inconvenience—they can lead to costly damage if left untreated. Our expert plumbers use advanced tools to quickly and effectively remove blockages in sinks, tubs, and toilets. With routine drain cleaning, you can avoid backups and ensure your system flows smoothly year-round.
Jetting
When standard cleaning isn’t enough, high-pressure jetting gets the job done. We use state-of-the-art equipment to blast away grease, sludge, roots, and debris from inside your pipes. This powerful method not only clears current blockages but also helps prevent future clogs, making it an ideal solution for long-term plumbing health.
Plumbing
From leak repairs to repiping, our licensed plumbers provide reliable solutions tailored to your home or business needs. We offer a full spectrum of services, including drain cleaning, water heater installation, and emergency repairs, ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably. Trust our experienced team for professional, high-quality plumbing work every time.
Sewer Repairs & Replacement
Sewer problems can disrupt your property and pose serious health risks if not handled quickly. At Drain Masters Rooter Plumbing, we specialize in repairing and replacing damaged sewer lines using both traditional and trenchless methods. Whether it’s root intrusion, cracked pipes, or a collapsed line, our team diagnoses the issue with precision and provides the most cost-effective, long-term solution.
Floor Breaks
Some plumbing problems hide beneath concrete floors and require specialized access. Our expert floor break services provide safe, controlled openings to reach underground pipes without unnecessary damage. Using professional-grade cutting equipment, we minimize dust, debris, and disruption while exposing only the exact area that needs repair.
Camera Inspections with Video
When it comes to plumbing problems, seeing is believing. Our advanced camera inspections provide a real-time, high-definition look inside your pipes, allowing us to identify clogs, cracks, leaks, or root intrusions with pinpoint accuracy. This non-invasive technology eliminates guesswork and prevents unnecessary digging or costly trial-and-error repairs.
Leak Detection
Leaks often remain hidden until they cause expensive water damage, mold growth, or high utility bills. Our leak detection service uses state-of-the-art technology—including electronic listening devices, moisture meters, and thermal imaging—to pinpoint leaks quickly without tearing into walls, floors, or ceilings.
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