Yes -- pressure testing should either be charged separately or clearly built into a higher diagnostic package. It is not a quick step. It requires specialized tools, proper line isolation, controlled pressure, careful interpretation, and documented results. The tool being on the truck does not make the work free.
What Pressure Testing Actually Involves
Pressure testing is not just hooking up a gauge. Each plumbing circuit requires a full sequence of steps before any result can be trusted.
Bad pressure testing creates bad conclusions -- and bad conclusions lead to the wrong repair. This is skilled diagnostic work that must be priced accordingly.
When to Include vs. When to Charge Separately
- Standard residential pool
- Normal number of plumbing lines
- No attached spa
- No major water features
- Base price is high enough to cover it
- Scope is clearly defined in writing
- Multiple skimmers or return circuits
- Attached spa with separate lines
- Waterfalls, deck jets, cleaner lines
- In-floor systems
- Commercial pools
- Long plumbing runs
- Customer requests pressure testing only
- Testing beyond original scope
How to Explain It to the Customer
"Pressure testing is a separate plumbing diagnostic. It requires us to isolate each line, plug it, apply controlled pressure, monitor the gauge, and document whether the line holds. That is different from a visual or dye inspection."
"Our base inspection checks the visible structure and common leak points. Pressure testing is added when we need to confirm whether underground plumbing lines are leaking. We explain that before doing any work."
Do not make it sound like a surprise. Explain it before the work begins -- and get agreement before testing additional circuits.
Common Pressure Testing Pricing Mistakes
LBA Resources
Jeff David's Perspective
The tool being on the truck does not make pressure testing free. I see beginners give it away constantly -- then wonder why they are exhausted and not making money. They test four circuits, document everything, spend an extra hour, and never charged a dollar for any of it.
At Leak and Subsurface Locators, LLC, pressure testing is a defined part of the scope. Customers know before we arrive what testing is included, what costs extra, and what happens if a line fails and we need to move into underground locating. That conversation happens at intake -- not on the job site when the work is already done.
-- Jeff David, Founder | Leak Business Academy, LLC | Leak and Subsurface Locators, LLC
Charge for It -- or Build It Into a Higher Package
Yes, charge separately for pressure testing or clearly include it in a premium diagnostic package priced to cover it. Define how many lines are included, when extra lines cost more, and when underground locating is a separate step after a failed pressure test. The customer should know this before the job starts.
Price Your Services Like a Professional
Leak Business Academy, LLC teaches pricing discipline, scope control, and how to present pressure testing as the professional diagnostic step it actually is.