1. Confirm the loss
The technician starts by confirming the pool is really losing water beyond evaporation, using your bucket-test results or a measured test on site, and notes the water level, equipment and any visible damage.
2. Pressure-test the plumbing
Each line (skimmers, main drains, returns, cleaner lines and spa lines) is isolated and pressure-tested. A line that won't hold pressure is leaking somewhere along its run, which often means underground.
3. Locate the leak precisely
Electronic listening equipment picks up the sound of water escaping under concrete or soil, so the leak can be pinpointed instead of guessed at. In the pool, a diver or the technician uses dye around fittings, lights, skimmer throats and cracks to see where water is being pulled out.
4. The written report
You get a report covering what was tested, what passed, where any leak was found, photos, and recommended repairs. It's useful for insurance, for a home sale, and for getting repair quotes.
Questions
How long does pool leak detection take?
Most residential pools take a few hours, depending on the number of lines, the spa and any water features.
Do you have to drain the pool?
No. Leak detection is done with the pool full and the equipment running normally.
Is a pre-purchase pool inspection worth it?
If you're buying a home with a pool, yes. Hidden leaks and equipment problems are expensive surprises after closing.