Specialist Leak Detection
Focused investigation for concealed or uncertain leaks within homes.
Specialist Leak Detection
Water Leak Detection
Locate hidden water leaks quickly and accurately using thermal imaging, tracer gas and acoustic leak detection methods.
We investigate concealed or uncertain water leaks within homes, including internal pipework behind walls, beneath floors and above ceilings where the source is not yet known.
Google Reviews ★★★★★ 5.0 Rating 70+ Reviews Read Reviews- Thermal Imaging
- Tracer Gas Detection
- Acoustic Detection
Non-Destructive Methods
Thermal imaging, tracer gas, acoustic detection and moisture mapping.
Coverage Across 7 Counties
London, Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Sussex.
Insurance Reports Available
Written findings and photographic evidence can support claim requirements.
What It Means
What Is Water Leak Detection?
Water leak detection is the process of locating concealed or uncertain leaks within internal domestic pipework. The source may be behind a wall, beneath a floor or above a ceiling even when the visible symptom appears elsewhere.
A specialist investigation is different from general plumbing because it uses diagnostic equipment before disruptive access work begins. The aim is to narrow the leak source and reduce unnecessary damage.
Thermal imaging, tracer gas, acoustic detection and moisture mapping are used where appropriate to build a clearer picture of the leak route, affected areas and likely access point.
If you are still establishing whether water loss may be hidden, our guide to checking for a hidden water leak explains safe preliminary observations before an investigation is arranged.
Choose the investigation that matches the affected system
Use mains water leak detection for an underground or meter-to-property supply pipe; central heating leak detection for boiler or sealed-system pressure loss; underfloor heating leak detection for a UFH circuit; and commercial leak detection for business, managed or commercial properties.
Symptoms
Common Signs Of A Hidden Water Leak
Boiler losing pressure
Repeated pressure loss can indicate a concealed heating system leak that needs diagnostic testing.
Water bill suddenly increased
Unexpected usage can point to a hidden mains or supply pipe leak inside or outside the property.
Damp patch on a wall
New damp patches should be investigated before opening walls, floors or ceilings unnecessarily.
Water stains on ceilings
Ceiling staining can come from bathrooms, heating pipework, supply pipes or other concealed sources.
Water meter constantly running
A meter that continues moving when outlets are off can indicate an active hidden water leak.
Reduced water pressure
Lower pressure can be linked to pipework faults, supply issues or leakage on the system.
Floor-level symptoms can have several causes. Read how to check for a leak beneath a floor before lifting finishes or assuming the source.
Process
How We Locate Hidden Water Leaks
01
Initial Assessment
We review the symptoms, property layout, systems affected and any insurance requirements.
02
Leak Investigation
Methods are selected according to the system, symptoms and site conditions rather than using every technology on every visit.
03
Likely Location Identified
Findings are correlated to narrow the likely leak source and the area that may require targeted access.
04
Findings Provided
Photographs and written recommendations can support access planning, repair handover or insurance discussions.
What Happens After A Likely Leak Source Is Identified?
We explain the findings, photographs and likely affected area so targeted access can be planned. Written recommendations can then be handed to an appropriate repair contractor, with any post-repair checks arranged where the investigation indicates they may be useful. Opening-up, permanent repair, reinstatement and insurer approval remain separate unless specifically included in the agreed scope.
Leak Types
Types Of Water Leaks We Investigate
Concealed hot and cold water pipework leaks
Leaks beneath internal floors
Leaks behind walls or above ceilings
Domestic hot water pipework leaks
Bathroom and appliance supply leaks
Internal leaks where the affected system is uncertain
Technology
Detection Methods Used For Hidden Water Leaks
Thermal Imaging May reveal temperature patterns that help assess concealed hot water movement and affected surfaces. 
Tracer Gas Can help establish a likely escape area where suitable pipework can be isolated and tested safely. 
Acoustic Detection May support location work on pressurised pipework where leak sound can be detected under site conditions. 
Moisture Mapping Helps record the extent and pattern of moisture so findings can be compared with pipe routes and other evidence. Investigation methods are selected according to the affected system, symptoms and site conditions. Not every method is used on every investigation, and no single technique guarantees an exact result in every circumstance.
Supporting Methods
Additional Investigation Techniques
Endoscopic Camera Inspection
Small inspection cameras are used to visually check concealed voids, pipe routes and difficult-to-access areas before opening up.
Dye Testing
Coloured test dye can help confirm water paths, waste leaks, bathroom leaks and suspected escape routes.
Pressure Testing
Controlled pressure testing helps identify whether sealed pipework or heating circuits are losing pressure.
Investigation Evidence
Concealed Water Leak Investigations
These published investigations show different symptoms, concealed locations and evidence-led methods used for internal domestic water leaks.
Woking, Surrey
Concealed Water LeakConcealed Water Leak Detection in Woking
Hidden water leak in Woking was dripping into suspended flooring and contributed to a high water bill.
Why it relates: Shows how an unnoticed internal leak beneath suspended flooring explained an unusually high water bill.
View case study
Reading, Berkshire
Concealed Water LeakWater Leak Detection in Reading
Concealed water leak investigation in Reading using thermal imaging, tracer gas and pressure testing.
Why it relates: Shows a concealed pipework investigation using thermal imaging, tracer gas and pressure testing around a ceiling area.
View case study
Camberley, Surrey
Hot Water LeakHot Water Leak Detection in Camberley
A reported hot water leak in Camberley was investigated using thermal imaging, tracer gas and acoustic detection methods.
Why it relates: Shows how several methods were combined to assess concealed domestic hot-water pipework and support targeted repair planning.
View case studyRelated Services
Related Leak Detection Services
01
Underfloor Heating Leak Detection
Specialist investigation for concealed UFH pipework, pressure loss and damp floor symptoms.
02
Mains Water Leak Detection
For meter-to-property supply pipes, underground leaks, running meters and external water loss.
03
Central Heating Leak Detection
For boiler pressure loss and concealed leaks within sealed central heating pipework.
04
Commercial Leak Detection
For businesses, managed properties and commercial buildings with wider stakeholder requirements.
05
Trace & Access
Leak tracing and access evidence for concealed pipework and insurance claim requirements.
06
Damp Investigation
Damp surveys and moisture mapping for water ingress and hidden leak symptoms.
Coverage
Areas We Cover
Water leak detection surveys are available across London, Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Sussex for homeowners, landlords and residential property managers.
FAQs
Water Leak Detection FAQs
Can you find hidden water leaks without opening walls or floors first?
Yes. The investigation starts with non-destructive methods such as thermal imaging, tracer gas, acoustic detection and moisture mapping before access work is recommended.
When is tracer gas used for water leak detection?
Tracer gas is used where pipework can be isolated and charged safely. It can help locate concealed leaks that are not visible and cannot be confirmed by thermal imaging alone.
How does thermal imaging help locate water leaks?
Thermal imaging can show temperature patterns linked to hot water movement, heating pipework, damp areas or abnormal heat loss. It is used with other tests to build evidence.
How much does water leak detection cost?
Cost depends on the property, system type, symptoms and investigation required. Contact us with the details and postcode so a specialist can advise the appropriate survey.
Can your findings support an insurance claim?
Yes. We can provide written findings and photographs that support trace and access or escape of water claim requirements. Your insurer decides what is covered.
Get Expert Help
Request Water Leak Detection
Speak to a specialist about damp patches, pressure loss, high water bills or suspected hidden pipework leaks.
Phone: 0333 577 0194 WhatsApp: Message us Email: Use the contact form