Leak Detection
Advanced thermal imaging and acoustic detection with minimal disruption.
Professional Leak Detection Services
A hidden leak can cause thousands of pounds worth of structural damage before it becomes visible. Our specialist leak detection engineers use professional thermal imaging cameras and acoustic listening devices to locate leaks behind walls, under floors and beneath concrete slabs, all without unnecessary cutting or drilling until we know exactly where the problem is.
Early leak detection saves money in two ways: it stops the water damage from escalating, and it reduces wasted water on your bill. A single dripping tap wastes over 5,000 litres per year; an underground mains leak can waste ten times that. We work with all leading insurance companies and can provide a full written report for claims purposes.
Our Leak Detection Process
- 1
Initial Assessment
We discuss your symptoms, rising water bills, damp patches, low pressure, sounds of running water, and plan the most efficient detection approach.
- 2
Non-Invasive Survey
Thermal imaging and acoustic detection equipment is used to identify the leak source without any cutting or disruption.
- 3
Precise Location Marked
We pinpoint the exact leak location to within centimetres and mark it clearly before any access work begins, minimising disruption.
- 4
Repair & Documentation
The leak is repaired on the same visit where possible. A full written report is provided for insurance and records purposes.
Leak Detection Services
- Thermal imaging leak surveys
- Acoustic leak detection
- Trace & access work
- Underfloor heating leak detection
- Mains water supply pipe leaks
- Swimming pool & pond leak detection
- Insurance report documentation
- Post-repair pressure testing
Signs You May Have a Hidden Leak
The most common signs of a hidden leak include an unexplained increase in your water bill, the sound of running water when all taps are turned off, damp or discoloured patches on walls, ceilings or floors, reduced water pressure, and a water meter that continues to move when no water is being used in the property. If you notice any of these, it is worth having a leak detection survey carried out before the damage becomes more serious.
How Thermal Imaging Finds Hidden Leaks
Thermal imaging cameras detect differences in surface temperature invisible to the naked eye. A leaking pipe behind a wall or beneath a floor will cause the surrounding material to be slightly cooler or warmer than its surroundings, creating a thermal signature that our cameras can identify precisely. This allows us to locate the leak to within a few centimetres without removing plaster, tiles or flooring until we are certain of the location.
Leak Detection for Insurance Claims
Many home insurance policies cover the cost of trace and access work, locating and accessing a leak, but require a professional report from a qualified plumber. We work with all the major insurers and can provide a detailed written report documenting the detection method, the location, photographic evidence and the repair carried out. This report is typically sufficient for an insurance claim for trace and access costs.
Leak Detection FAQs
How accurate is non-invasive leak detection?
With modern thermal imaging and acoustic equipment, our engineers can locate leaks to within a few centimetres in the vast majority of cases. This eliminates the need for speculative cutting or drilling and dramatically reduces the cost and disruption of trace and access work.
Can you detect leaks under concrete floors?
Yes. Acoustic detection equipment is particularly effective for locating leaks in pipes embedded in concrete. We can pinpoint the exact location so that only a minimal area of concrete needs to be broken up for the repair.
My water bill has doubled but I cannot see a leak, what should I do?
First, check your water meter. Turn off all taps and water-using appliances and watch whether the meter dial continues to move. If it does, you have a leak somewhere. It may be on the supply pipe between the boundary stopcock and your property, which you are responsible for as a homeowner. Call us for a leak detection survey.
Suspect a Hidden Leak?
Rising bills or unexplained damp patches are warning signs. Call us, early detection saves thousands.
Get a Quote