- Assessment and leak location come before any digging.
- The water is only off while the section is replaced.
- Ask what surface restoration the quote includes.
Stage 1: Assessment
The provider confirms the leak is on the service line, not inside the house or in the irrigation. Expect questions about what you've noticed and a meter check with the building shut-off and irrigation isolated.
Your part: share what you've seen, any meter test results, and when the house was last replumbed if you know.
Stage 2: Locating the leak
The provider traces the pipe's route and pinpoints the leak using acoustic listening, tracer gas or pressure testing, depending on the pipe and site. This is what keeps the dig small. Our guide to finding underground leaks explains the methods.
Your part: point out sprinkler lines, low-voltage lighting and your sewer cleanout, which aren't marked by public utility locating.
Stage 3: Accessing the pipe
Before excavating, contractors contact 811 so public underground utilities are marked; California law requires this notice ahead of digging. The access hole is then opened over the leak, by hand near other utilities or roots, or with a small machine where there's room. Turf is often cut and set aside; pavers lifted; concrete saw-cut if unavoidable.
Your part: clear vehicles, planters and furniture; keep kids and pets away from the open hole.
Stage 4: The repair
With the pipe exposed, the provider inspects it on either side of the damage. If it's sound, the water is shut off, the damaged section or fitting is cut out, and new pipe is joined with couplings rated for the material, including proper transition fittings where materials change. If the pipe is badly deteriorated, this is when they may recommend replacement; see repair or replace?
Your part: fill a few containers before the shut-off; ask to see the damaged pipe.
Stage 5: Testing and flushing
The water is turned back on slowly (to avoid pressure shock) and the repair is checked under pressure with the hole still open. Taps are run to purge air and any loosened sediment. Expect some sputtering and cloudy water briefly.
Stage 6: Backfill and restoration
Soil goes back in layers and is compacted to reduce later settling. Turf is replaced or the area raked; hardscape is relaid or patched depending on what the quote includes.
Your part: check the meter a day later with everything off (it should be still), and watch the area for settling after the first rains.
Before the day: questions to ask
- Is a permit needed, and who arranges it?
- How long will the water be off?
- What surface restoration is included?
- What warranty applies to the repair?
For the full picture, see water service line repair, and if the pipe is under hardscape or deep, underground water line repair. Our homepage has more on water line repair services in San Luis Obispo.