FAQs – Leak Detection

We understand the stress of having a hard-to-find leak in your property. Our leak detection experts have years of experience. They are happy to share their knowledge and will explain the processes and non-invasive methods they use to find leaks.

We know that most people have questions about how leak detection works. Whether it’s about the equipment used, how the service is charged, or how it supports an insurance claim, we’ve provided answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What are the risks of ignoring a leak?

There are many reasons why a water leak should not be ignored. Remember, the visible signs of a leak may be hiding bigger problems:

1. Health risks: Mould and mildew growth in damp conditions can be a serious health risk to young and elderly people, or those with respiratory conditions.
2. Structural damage: Building fabric, including timbers and masonry, can weaken and lose its structural integrity in permanent high-moisture conditions.
3. Electrical issues: If water comes into contact with parts of an electrical installation, short circuits, fire risks, and potential electric shock risks can occur.
4. Higher repair costs: Moisture from a leak gradually spreads throughout a property, leading to more complex repairs. The spread of moisture is not visible at lower saturation levels.
5. Insurance denial: When a leak is suspected, policyholders are usually required to act quickly to mitigate damage, and a claim can be refused due to higher repair costs.
6. Furniture damage: If a leak is ignored and left unresolved, moisture, mould, and mildew will damage furniture, carpets, and other belongings.

Who can find hidden leaks in my property?

Our leak detection experts use various non-invasive methods to find concealed and hard-to-find leaks. They are all certified tradespeople with years of experience. Our leaks, damp, and restoration division includes expert plumbers, drainage engineers, heating engineers, and roofers.

How long does a leak detection investigation take?

The time required for an investigation depends on factors such as the type of leak, the size of the property, and the complexity of the building’s structure.
As a guide, a bathroom leak in a typical semi-detached house might take up to 4 hours to locate, whereas a leak in a commercial mains water supply pipe can take more than a day.
An estimated total investigation time can usually be provided after the first 2 hours.

How much does leak detection cost?

Our leak detection investigations are charged in half-hour increments, so the cost depends on the time it takes to trace the leak and identify the cause.
Specialist tracer gas is sometimes used to pinpoint leaks, which is charged for, along with any materials used in any repairs undertaken. Surveys are generated while at the site, so there is no additional charge for the report.

What equipment is used for leak detection?

Various non-invasive methods are used during an investigation. Based on the findings of each test, a methodical approach is taken. Each investigation uses several tests, some of which are used in specific situations.
The equipment includes moisture meters, salts analysis, pressure test kits, thermal imaging cameras, acoustic tests, tracer gas tests, and dye test kits. Voltage test equipment is used for leak detection on flat roofs.

Is leak detection covered by insurance?

Most property insurance policies contain a clause for “trace and access” or “escape of water”. Water damage caused by plumbing, drainage, and heating system leaks is usually covered. Roofing leaks caused by general age, weathering, or poor installation are not usually covered.
Insurance policies cover different parts of a leak’s investigation, access, repair, and reinstatement phases, so you should read your policy or contact your insurer.
Our comprehensive guide lets you learn more about making a successful “escape of water” claim.

What is a trace and access report?

A detailed report supports our leak detection investigations. It includes an assessment, photos and information on the equipment used to trace a leak, the findings, interpretations, and details of how the leak is accessed for repair work. It also includes a cost estimate for reinstatement (restoring the area affected to its original condition).
A trace and access report is usually needed as detailed, professional evidence to support an “escape of water” insurance claim.

Do I need a leak detection report for insurance?

Most insurance providers will request a trace and access report from a leak detection company when processing a claim. Our tradespeople provide a report for every leak detection investigation, unless they have been instructed not to.
A report is not a guarantee that a claim will be processed. You can read more on making an insurance claim in our guide.

Are trace and access costs covered by home insurance?

Your home insurance policy almost certainly includes an “escape of water” or “trace and access” clause. If it does, the cost of tracing the location of a hidden or hard-to-find leak and then accessing it for visual confirmation will be covered, less the excess.
However, specific wording or circumstances can mean a claim is unsuccessful. Reasons for this include a lack of maintenance, failure to respond quickly to the signs of a leak, and, if the water is from an external source, such as a leaking roof, rather than an internal plumbing system.

Can plumbers find hidden leaks?

We have trained, equipped and up-skilled our most experienced plumbers, drainage engineers, and heating engineers in leak detection. Only plumbers with access to a complete range of leak detection techniques, and the knowledge and experience of using them, can be expected to find hidden leaks reliably.
If you have a hidden leak that needs investigating, you should book a leak detection specialist, rather than a plumber.
 

Can leaks be detected out of hours?

Yes, our leak detection service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Enter your postcode on our pricing page for half-hourly rates for evening, weekend, and late night investigations.