Ceiling leak detection and repairs

We understand the stress of having water leaking through ceilings, and the need to get it fixed fast. Wherever you are in London or the Home Counties, we’ll schedule a ceiling leak detection expert for you quickly.

Often, small leaks don’t actually result in water coming through a ceiling. Brown or yellow stains, or mold growth, on a ceiling is a common indication of water damage. Just because you don’t have water dripping, it doesn’t mean the source of the problem shouldn’t be investigated. A water damaged ceiling often hides bigger problems.

We have tradespeople available 24/7. The non-destructive methods they use means they can usually locate a hidden leak without causing any damage.

All our tradespeople have a complete set of equipment to detect any type of leak or source of water ingress. You can read more about each of the techniques used here.

It’s very rare for a hidden leak to be found using a single test. Information gathered from one test determines how the investigation should proceed and the test that’ll be used next.

Our experts follow a methodical approach based on the evidence they collect. Knowing where in the property the ceiling leak is and its history is an important first step.

For example, if a water damaged ceiling is beneath a loft, other information will help us schedule the right expert:

• Does the leak on the ceiling appear to get worse following wet weather conditions?
• Is there a pitched or flat roof system above that section of the property?
• What type of heating system is installed?

If leaking occurs on the days after wet weather conditions this would point to a roof leak. In this case, we’d schedule a tradesperson with a background in roofing.

They have the equipment and knowledge to access the roof straightaway. They can make a quick visual assessment of its condition. This can help focus attention on where their investigation should begin.

If the weather is dry and water spots are gradually increasing it could be due to a water supply line leak. If there’s a water tank in the loft linked to a gravity-fed system, we’ll schedule a Gas Safe registered plumbing expert.

Similarly, if the water coming through a ceiling is below a bathroom we’re also likely to schedule a plumbing expert.

Once our expert has identified the source of a ceiling leak, the repair work can begin. Firstly, this will involve exposing the leak for visual confirmation.

The extent of the damage will be documented and photographed. This information forms part of our report that can be used when making an insurance policy claim. We’ll aim to stop the leak straightaway and prevent further damage.

Some leaks can be fixed immediately. A leaking pipe in a ceiling void might be caused by something as simple as jointing compound that has failed. This can be repaired while our tradesperson is still on-site.

However, if extensive water damage to timber joists is found the repairs will take longer. Refurbishment like this will need to be carefully planned.

We provide a full reinstatement service. Whether it’s specialist dehumidifying or structural drying, carpentry, plastering or tiling, we can manage every part of the process. We even have decorators to cover unsightly water spots with ceiling paint.