Fuel leak

My son has been smelling gas on his car while driving. I told him to take it in and get it checked out. Unfortunately he is six hours south of me or I could check it. He said they do not see anything and will have to drop the tank to check there. They did say he is already up to $460.00 in labor alone before dropping the tank. And that it may be the fuel pump. I believe the pump is in the tank if I am correct. How can it be the pump if it is in the tank. I guess maybe a hose at the top of the tank to the pump. Anyone have any expertise on this subject. I hate to see him get ripped off. Any suggestions? Thanks