Pool leak
detection

Accurate, non-invasive pool leak detection, with expert pool
repairs across Cape Town

Residential & commercial pools • 3-year workmanship guarantee

Get a quote

Call 021 200 5887

Equipment used for swimming pool fault identification like water loss

Technician using equipment for non-invasive leak testing

Technician inspecting swimming pool pipework and fittings

Pool plumbing assessment using acoustic inspection equipment

Specialist conducting pipework assessment with tracer gas equipment

Acoustic inspection equipment for pipework assessment

Technician using acoustic water loss equipment

Specialised equipment for water loss assessment

Registered with IPA and NSPI

NSPI National Spa & Pool Institute member

IPA International Pool and Aquatic Association member

Pool leak detection & repair specialists

Precision, experience, and complete pool leak solutions you can trust.

Losing water from your swimming pool isn’t just inconvenient – it can lead to rising water bills, structural damage, and costly repairs if left unresolved.

At Core Plumbing & Leak Detection, we specialise in accurately locating pool leaks using advanced, non-invasive technology. Our experienced technicians identify the exact source of leaks quickly and efficiently, allowing repairs to be carried out in a targeted and practical way, with minimal unnecessary disruption.

We don’t just find leaks – we repair them.

Our repair services include

Did you know?

A leak as small as 3mm can waste up to 12,000 litres of water per day, significantly increasing costs and risking long-term damage.

A person in a blue shirt standing by a swimming pool, holding equipment.

Complete pool leak repair solutions

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Pipe repairs

We carry out targeted pipe repairs using both traditional replacement methods and modern pipe relining solutions where suitable, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal disruption.

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Fitting and equipment repairs

We repair or replace faulty skimmers, return jets, pool lights, and related fittings. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of pool equipment issues efficiently.

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Waterproofing solutions

We apply proven waterproofing systems to prevent future leaks and protect your pool structure. All solutions are designed to be durable, effective, and completed using high-quality materials and modern repair techniques.

Where required, we work with trusted specialist partners to ensure repairs are completed to the highest professional standard. All repairs are carried out professionally and backed by a 3-year workmanship guarantee.

Why pool owners choose us

We focus on accurate pool leak detection, professional expertise, and a smooth end-to-end process.

Pipework fault identification and repair services

Advanced Leak Detection

State-of-the-art pool leak detection equipment for accurate results.

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Expert Full-Service Team

Our highly skilled technicians handle everything from leak detection to repair – saving you time and hassle.

Swimming pool water loss investigation services

All Pool Types & Fast Response

We service all pool types and respond quickly to minimise water loss and prevent further damage.

Trusted by pool owners across Cape Town

See what our clients have to say about our leak detection and repair services.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Edwin Pentz 
 15/09/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding service from Core Leak Detection! We at Supreme Pool Spa and Decking have been extremely impressed with their professionalism, fast response, and accurate leak detection. Reliable, knowledgeable, and highly recommended. Excellent service from start to finish!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   CJ Wiid-van Wyk 
 28/08/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Core's team is professional, assistive and takes the time to understand the issue.  They are punctual and very efficient.  I will highly recommend their services to anyone
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   viola martenstein 
 26/08/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. excellent service and expertise!!
Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Debbie Turberville 
 24/08/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you Core Leak Detection for sorting out our leaking pool. It was an absolute pleasure dealing with this company. It was a bigger job than expected but the work carried out was done well and problem solved.  I would highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Aslam Ebrahim 
 12/08/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. excellent customer service. Well attired , orientation to detail in reports n images provided
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sean Hooper 
 24/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service received from Day 1 from Core Services.
My initial telephone call was answered within seconds, which is very rare in today's service industry. The entire process—from booking, leak detection report (pool leak), quotation, repair, and invoicing—was seamless and faultless.
The teams arrived on time as scheduled, worked efficiently and neatly, quickly identified the issue, and completed the repair. The entire process was completed within a week.
A special thank you to Helicia, Johan, Jaydee, Wayden, and Lucas for their professionalism and excellent customer service.
I would highly recommend CORE Plumbing Leak Detection as the go-to company for leak detection and repairs. My frustrations with trying to deal with the issue myself have disappeared along with the leak, and I can now look forward to enjoying my pool again.
Best regards,
Sean
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sonto Moloi 
 18/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The service is very good and the staff very friendly.not forgetting Helicia very sweet and helpful.❤️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rob Pearson 
 08/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We experienced a leak in our pool and were unsure of its source. After reaching out to Core Leak Detection, they utilized their impressive tools to identify two specific areas where the leaks were happening.

A different team came a few days later to repair the identified problem areas. They not only addressed the leaks but also inspected for any similar or additional leaks.

I wholeheartedly recommend this company for their thorough approach to detecting and repairing pool leaks.

Our pool leak detection methods

Identifying pool leaks early is key to protecting your pool and avoiding unnecessary repair costs. We use a combination of proven professional techniques to accurately locate leaks.

Technician assess Water and air pressure

Water and air pressure testing

We assess the integrity of your pool’s plumbing by isolating and pressurising the pipes. Any pressure loss indicates a leak, making this method ideal for identifying issues in underground pipework.

LeakTrac 2400 – Electronic lining leak detection

This advanced electronic system locates leaks in fibreglass and lined pools by tracking electrical current flow toward breaches in the lining, without the need to drain the pool.

Infrared thermal imaging

Specialised thermal cameras detect temperature variations caused by moisture, ideal for locating water loss behind pool walls, beneath decks, or in restricted areas.

Tracer gas detection

A safe, inert gas is introduced into the plumbing system and detected using specialised sensors. This allows us to accurately locate concealed leaks beneath paving, concrete, or decking.

Dye testing

A simple and effective method where dye is introduced near suspected areas. If a leak is present, the dye is drawn toward it, visually confirming the leak location.

A technician using a specialised camera is inserted into the plumbing system

Camera inspections

A specialised camera is inserted into the plumbing system to visually inspect pipes for cracks, damage, or faulty fittings contributing to water loss.

Acoustic and hydrophone correlation

Acoustic and hydrophone correlation uses advanced listening equipment to analyse and match sound signals from escaping water or air. This allows us to accurately confirm the location of leaks, especially in complex pool systems or concealed areas.

Clear answers, no guesswork

Every inspection includes a detailed leak detection report outlining our findings, test results, images, clear repair recommendations, and a repair quotation where applicable.

Service documentation and reports on water loss

View sample report 1

View sample report 2

View sample report 3

Signs you may have a pool leak

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Rapid or unexplained water loss

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Sudden increase in water bills

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Wet, soggy, or sinking areas around the pool

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Cracks in tiles, coping, or pool shell

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Persistent algae problems

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Air bubbles in the pump or return lines

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Leaking pool equipment

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Shifting or sunken paving

Request a call-out

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Our pool leak detection and repair process

Get in touch with us via phone, WhatsApp, email, or by completing our form.

A member of our team will discuss your requirements, explain pricing, and arrange a convenient date and time for the inspection.

Our experienced leak detection specialists carry out a thorough inspection using advanced, non-invasive technology to locate the source of the leak.

You’ll receive a detailed report outlining all tests performed, our findings, recommended repairs, and a transparent repair quotation.

Once the repair quote is approved, we’ll schedule the repair and resolve the issue efficiently and professionally. A repair report can be provided where required, suitable for submission to insurance providers.

Light bulb icon representing helpful information, educational resources, and expert insights.

For those who’d like a deeper understanding, explore our expert articles covering common pool leak issues, water loss, and the difference between DIY testing and professional leak detection.

Learn more about pool leaks

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Still Have Questions?

Speak to one of our experts and get personalized advice before booking your inspection.

Talk to an Expert

Why professional pool leak detection matters

While DIY tests can confirm water loss, they rarely identify the exact source of a leak. Professional pool leak detection uses specialised equipment and experience to locate leaks accurately and efficiently.

A blue magnifying glass icon with a droplet inside.

Accurate detection without unnecessary excavation

Early intervention to prevent major repairs

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Reduced water loss and long-term costs

Professional repairs with a 3-year workmanship guarantee

Request a call-out

About DIY testing

Want to check if you have a leak? Here are a few DIY methods that you can use to test whether you may have a leak or not:

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The bucket test

What it does

The bucket test helps determine if water loss is due to evaporation or a leak.

How to perform

Place the bucket on a pool step, fill the bucket with pool water to the same level as the pool marking the water levels inside the bucket and on the outside of the bucket (representing the pool’s water level). Ensure the bucket is weighed down to keep it in place. A few stones or bricks would keep the bucket in place.
After 48 hours, compare the water levels inside and outside the bucket. If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket water, there may be a leak.
This can be done twice, first with the pool filtration system turned off for two days thereafter with the pool filtration running its normal cycle for two days or a minimum of six hours over the two days. Doing them independently can give indication on whether the leak is in the pool lining or in the pool plumbing.
If water loss increases when the pump is running, the leak may be on the pressure side (after the pump). If the loss is consistent, it could be a leak on the suction line or the pool lining.

Why it works

The bucket test separates evaporation from water loss due to leaks.

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Dye test

What it does

Helps detect leaks around pool fittings, lights, or suspected cracks.

How to perform

Turn off the pool pump to ensure still water.
Use a leak detection dye or diluted food colouring and a syringe near suspected areas (skimmers, jets, light niches, cracks).
Watch for the dye being drawn into the leak location.

Why it works

Water flows to the source of the leak, pulling the dye with it.

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Monitor water loss

What it does

Helps to determine if water loss is excessive compared to normal evaporation.

How to perform

Measure and record the pool’s water level at the same time over a few days.
Compare the daily water loss to average evaporation rates (typically around 4 to 6mm per day).
If the loss is significantly higher, it likely indicates a leak.
This can be done with the filtration system turned off for a few days and then with the filtration system on its normal cycle. Measuring them independently can give indication on whether the leak is in the pool lining or in the pool plumbing.
If water loss increases when the pump is running, the leak may be on the pressure side (after the pump). If the loss is consistent, it could be a leak on the suction line or the pool lining.
Look for air bubbles in the pump basket or return jets, which can indicate suction-side leaks.

Why it works

Measuring over several days gives a clearer picture of abnormal water loss that might be affected by weather conditions.

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Visual inspection

What it does

Identifies visible signs of leaks around the pool.

How to perform

Inspect for cracks, loose tiles, or gaps in the pool’s surface, especially around the skimmer, returns, lights, and fittings.
Check the equipment pad for moisture, drips, or puddles.
Look for wet spots or uneven grass near the pool’s plumbing or structure.

Why it works

Often leaks, especially above ground, can be identified visually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse our FAQs for quick answers and helpful information.

How do I know if my pool is leaking?

Common signs include unexplained water loss, wet or soggy areas around the pool, air bubbles in the pump or return jets, a sudden increase in your water bill, persistent algae problems, or shifting and sinking paving around the pool.

How much water loss is normal for a pool in Cape Town?

Uncovered pools typically lose 3–6mm per day through evaporation during summer. If your pool is losing more than this, especially when the pump is off, it’s likely leaking.

What is the bucket test and how does it work?

Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step at water level. Mark both the inside bucket level and the pool water level. After 24–48 hours, compare the two. If the pool has lost more water than the bucket, a leak is likely.

How much does pool leak detection cost in Cape Town?

Pricing for standard residential pools in most areas of Cape Town starts from R2,600. Final pricing depends on the size and complexity of the pool and filtration systems.

How long does pool leak detection take?

A standard residential pool leak detection typically takes around 90 minutes. Larger pools with multiple systems, multiple jets, water features, rim flows, or balancing tanks may require additional time.

What methods are used to detect pool leaks?

Professional pool leak detection uses a combination of pressure testing, tracer gas, acoustic listening devices, hydrophones, thermal imaging, dye testing, and endoscope camera inspections to pinpoint leaks without unnecessary excavation.

What are the risks of ignoring a pool leak?

Even small leaks can worsen over time and eventually cause significant structural or plumbing damage. Ongoing water loss leads to rising water bills, soil erosion, shifting paving, equipment damage, algae problems, and costly long-term repairs. It is always more cost-effective to address a leak early.

Do I need to drain my pool to fix a leak?

Not always. Plumbing leaks can often be repaired without draining the pool. Structural or lining-related leaks may require partial draining.

How long do pool leak repairs take?

Minor repairs may take only a few hours. Larger or more complex repairs can take one or more days.

Do you offer a guarantee on repairs?

Yes. All repairs carried out by Core Plumbing & Leak Detection are backed by a three-year workmanship guarantee.

Do you inspect pools when buying a house?

Yes. Core Leak Detection offers full pool inspection and leak testing services for property purchases and new pool installations, giving buyers peace of mind before committing.