All Forum Posts by: Daniel Mueller

Speaking honestly, leaky water mains I've known to be possibly quite expensive, to a few dollar do-it-yourselfer.  It really would depend on where and in what condition the leak in the pipe is, if further concerns such as water damage are not in the picture.  Here's where I've found the difference to be: the cheap scenario is when the leak is in the house, open and accessible where they (or you) can just turn off the main valve (since the leak is AFTER the main valve switch in the home).  Once off, one can simply cut the leaky section of pipe out; replacing it with a new section (online This Old house episodes should do it for your learning curve).  The expensive way usually is dealing with a leak that is underground, BEFORE the water main valve inside.  This requires at minimum someone from the city who is certified, shutting off the water at the street which then allows for your plumber to start troubleshooting where the leak is by digging (fun).  This, as you can imagine, can be expensive.

Get at least three (3) quotes, and understand what they say needs to be done.  Will insurance cover it; and if so, for what amount?  Did you go with Quick Response for your first quote?  If so, they have a good reputation but I believe they may be a bit more exlensive.