GPR & Water Leak Detection FAQ

Ground-penetrating radar is a non-destructive testing method that uses high-frequency radio waves to image the subsurface. A GPR antenna emits electromagnetic pulses into a surface — concrete, soil, or asphalt — and records the reflected signals from buried objects and material boundaries. The result is a real-time subsurface image that reveals buried utilities, reinforcement, voids, moisture, and structural anomalies without any drilling or excavation.

Modern GPR equipment with experienced operators achieves location accuracy of 1–3 cm for shallow targets in concrete. Accuracy varies by material type, depth, and antenna frequency. For concrete scanning — the most common application — our technicians can identify rebar, conduit, and post-tension cables with a high degree of confidence. We always state the limits of each investigation in our reports so engineers and contractors can rely on our findings appropriately.

Depth penetration depends on the antenna frequency and the material being scanned. In concrete, our high-frequency antennas scan to approximately 500 mm (20 inches), which covers the vast majority of structural concrete applications. In soil, lower-frequency systems can penetrate 3–10 metres depending on moisture content and soil composition. For utility location in typical BC soil conditions, we achieve reliable results to 3–4 metres depth.

Yes. GPR equipment operates at very low power levels — significantly less than a mobile phone. It produces no radiation hazard, no noise, no vibration, and no dust. Scanning can take place in occupied buildings, hospitals, schools, and food-handling facilities without any safety risk to occupants. This is one of the primary advantages of GPR over invasive investigation methods.

GPR works effectively through concrete, asphalt, soil, clay, sand, gravel, brick, and masonry. It is less effective through highly conductive materials such as saltwater-saturated concrete, metal decking, and heavily reinforced slabs where the rebar grid creates a reflective barrier. Our technicians assess each site and advise on any limitations before scanning begins.

Water-saturated materials have different electromagnetic properties than dry materials, creating detectable reflections in GPR data. We combine GPR with thermal imaging and acoustic detection for the most accurate leak location. Thermal cameras identify temperature differentials caused by evaporating moisture, while acoustic sensors detect the sound signature of pressurized pipe leaks. This multi-method approach gives us the highest accuracy for leak location in complex building environments.

Yes — that is the primary purpose of our non-invasive detection service. In the vast majority of cases, we locate the leak source without any demolition. We then mark the precise leak location so that a plumber or remediation contractor can perform a targeted, minimal-access repair rather than speculative opening of large areas. This typically reduces repair costs by 60–80% compared to exploratory demolition.

We locate slab leaks, underground pipe leaks, roof membrane failures, wall cavity leaks, foundation moisture intrusion, pool and fountain leaks, sewer line failures, and HVAC condensate issues. Our equipment and methodology are suited to every property type — residential homes, condominiums, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, hospitals, and municipal infrastructure.

A typical residential leak investigation takes 2–4 hours on-site, including scanning, analysis, and preliminary findings. Commercial and multi-unit investigations may take a full day or span multiple visits depending on the building size and complexity. We provide a written report within 24–48 hours of completing the on-site investigation.

Yes. All of our investigations include a written report with findings, methodology, GPR scan data, thermal images, moisture readings, and a statement of the leak source. Our reports are accepted by all major Canadian property insurers and are structured to support both residential claims and commercial insurance submissions. We can also provide supplementary statements if required by your adjuster.

A GPR scan is required before any core drilling, saw-cutting, or anchor installation into concrete that may contain rebar, post-tension cables, electrical conduits, or utility pipes. Under WorkSafeBC regulations, contractors must identify all embedded hazards before cutting. Hitting a post-tension cable is not just a structural emergency — it can be fatal. We recommend scanning any concrete slab, wall, or column before any penetration work regardless of the apparent age or type of construction.

Post-tensioned concrete uses high-strength steel cables or tendons that are tensioned after the concrete has cured, placing the concrete in compression. These cables are under enormous tension — typically 100–200 kN. Cutting or severing a post-tension cable causes a violent, explosive release of energy that can be lethal and causes severe structural damage. Post-tension cable mapping uses GPR to precisely locate every cable before any cutting takes place. This is a mandatory safety step in any post-tensioned concrete structure, which includes most parkades, high-rise slabs, and modern commercial floors built in BC since the 1980s.

Yes. In fact, this is one of the most valuable applications of GPR scanning — many buildings have undocumented electrical conduits, plumbing, or structural modifications that do not appear in original construction drawings. GPR scans the actual physical conditions rather than relying on as-built documentation, which is often incomplete or inaccurate for older buildings.

For emergency situations — active leaks, imminent excavation, or safety-critical pre-cut scans — we offer same-day dispatch in Metro Vancouver and typically next-day for the broader Lower Mainland. Planned investigations are usually scheduled within 1–3 business days. We respond to all commercial and government inquiries within one business hour.

Our primary service area covers Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, and the Sea-to-Sky corridor. We serve the entire province of BC for larger projects and contracted engagements. Northern BC and remote locations are available upon request with appropriate lead time.

Pricing depends on the type of investigation, site size, number of scan areas, and required deliverables. Residential pre-drill concrete scans for a single area are typically the lowest-cost service. Commercial building leak investigations, utility mapping programs, and engineering-grade subsurface assessments are scoped and quoted based on project specifics. Contact us for a quote — we provide transparent pricing with no surprise charges.

Yes. All of our technicians hold current WorkSafeBC certifications relevant to their site activities. Our services comply with BC Regulation 31.21 (pre-excavation requirements), the BC Building Code, and all applicable WorkSafeBC construction safety standards. Our reports are formatted to support your WorkSafeBC compliance documentation.