### Cost Components

**Detection Service Costs:** - Thermal imaging: $300-800 - Acoustic listening: $200-600 - Tracer gas: $400-1200 - Complete assessment: $500-1500 - Repeat monitoring: $200-500/year

**Repair Costs:** - Simple faucet repair: $100-300 - Water line repair (accessible): $500-2000 - Under-slab repair: $2000-10000 - Structural damage repair: $5000-100000+

### Potential Savings

**Monthly Utility Savings:** - Average leak: $50-300/month - Large leak: $300-1000/month - Structural damage prevented: Priceless

**Annual Calculations:** - Hidden 1-gallon/minute leak: ~$3600/year water cost - 2-gallon/minute leak: ~$7200/year - Thermal imaging cost recovery: 2-6 months

### Payback Timeline

**Scenario 1: Residential** - Detection cost: $600 - Monthly savings: $150 - Payback period: 4 months - Annual savings: $1800 - 5-year savings: $9000

**Scenario 2: Commercial Building** - Detection cost: $1500 - Monthly savings: $500 - Payback period: 3 months - Annual savings: $6000 - 5-year savings: $30000

**Scenario 3: Large Facility** - Detection cost: $3000 - Monthly savings: $2000 - Payback period: 1.5 months - Annual savings: $24000 - 5-year savings: $120000

### Hidden Costs Prevented

**Property Damage:** - Foundation damage: $10,000-100,000 - Mold remediation: $5,000-15,000 - Structural repairs: $20,000-200,000 - Flooring replacement: $5,000-30,000

**Health Costs:** - Mold-related illness treatment: varies - Air quality improvements: $1,000-10,000 - Insurance increases: $500-5000/year

### Financial Decision Framework

Calculate average monthly bills
Identify unusual usage patterns
Get professional assessment
Estimate detection cost
Calculate potential savings
Determine payback period
Make investment decision

### Funding Options

Some utilities offer rebates
Financing programs available
Insurance may cover some repairs
Tax deductions possible
Property tax assessments

Leak Detection ROI Calculator