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Slab Leak Reroute: Replacing the Line Without Cutting the Slab

A reroute stops the leak by taking the line out of service and giving the water a new path. Instead of breaking concrete, the new pipe runs through the walls or attic to the same fixtures.

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By Pomona Slab Leak Pros · Updated November 2026

What a reroute is

Technician using electronic leak detection equipment on a home floor

In a reroute, the leaking line under the slab is cut and capped so it no longer carries water, and a new line is run above the slab to the fixtures it used to feed. It is one of four fixes covered on slab leak repair options.

How a reroute is done

  1. Confirm the leak and the line. Detection shows which pipe is leaking and where it runs. See slab leak detection.
  2. Plan the new route. Usually through the attic and walls, avoiding the slab.
  3. Open access points. Small sections of drywall are cut where the pipe will pass.
  4. Install the new line in copper or PEX and connect it to the fixtures.
  5. Cap the old line at both ends so it is out of service.
  6. Test and patch. The new line is pressure tested, then walls are patched and painted.

When a reroute fits

  • The leak sits under a floor that is expensive or hard to open
  • The same line has leaked before
  • You want to avoid breaking the slab
  • The old line is worn and likely to leak again

What to weigh

  • Drywall and paint. Patching is part of the job, and paint matching is worth asking about.
  • Time. A reroute generally takes longer than a spot repair.
  • Old line left in place. It stays in the slab, capped and out of service.
  • Permits. Ask whether the new piping needs a permit and inspection. See Pomona plumbing permits.

Cost

National contractor-cost data puts rerouting plumbing lines at roughly $1,500 to $15,000, a wide range that reflects how different one house is from another (HomeAdvisor via Angi, April 2024). Ask for a written price. See the slab leak repair cost guide.

Frequently asked questions

Does a reroute fix the leak or just hide it?

It stops the leak by taking the leaking line out of service. The new line carries the water, so no water flows through the old pipe.

Is the old pipe a problem if it stays in the slab?

The old line is capped and out of service. Ask your plumber to note where it was capped for your records.

Will I need to move out during a reroute?

Usually not, but water is off for part of the work. Ask for a schedule.

Can a reroute be done for only part of the house?

Yes, when the leaking line serves only some fixtures. Your plumber can tell you which lines are involved.

Sources: HomeAdvisor via Angi, slab leak repair cost

Spot repairFix one leak by opening the slab in one place.Whole-house repipeReplace all the supply lines at once.PEX vs copperCompare the two common pipe materials.

Need slab leak repair Pomona homeowners can book? See our slab leak repair Pomona page for how we work, or call (909) 415-2610.

Water running, or a warm spot on the floor?

Shut off the main if water is visible, then call. A Pomona plumber will tell you what to do next.

Call (909) 415-2610

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