Frequently asked questions

We are the number one Leak Detection experts in the United Kingdom. We operate around the clock for our customers

FAQs

Yes we can! However, we may need to carry out minor excavation works to expose it before we repair it.

To avoid further problems arising, the area must be dried once the leak has been repaired. Moisture generally traps itself within surfaces even if you can’t physically see it. If the property has not been dried after a leak, mould and further damage will appear in the décor of your building. This will also cause health implications when mould is taken in via the lungs, which can seriously cause issues to your health.

There are several ways of testing this one of which is to turn off the stop cock for the water feed running into your property. Check to see if the meter gauge is still running then this is a clear indication here is a suspected leak on your side of the property. The stop cock is either located underneath your kitchen ink or alternatively under your stair cupboard. Another form is to look out for sudden damp patches appearing in certain sections of your property.

There are 2 types of stop cocks in your property, there’s a Mains, which comes in via the feed of the street which generally is accessible via the water providers also another inside your private property which caps off the water from the mains street feed to the internal side of your property which is generally located under your staircase or kitchen sink.
There are several ways of testing this. One of which is to turn off the stop cock for the water feed running into your property. Check to see if the meter gauge is still running, this will give you a clear indication of whether or not there is a suspected leak on your side of the property. The stop cock is either located underneath your kitchen sink or under your stair cupboard. Another form is to look out for sudden damp patches appearing in certain parts of your property for example, along your walls or skirting boards.
Unfortunately with some leaks, you can’t prevent all damage, however, we can take certain steps to reduce the amount of damage that will be caused by the leak. The first step in minimizing damage is to turn off your water supply to the house. Try to turn your boiler off, this will stop damage if the boiler pipework runs dry. If possible, start to dry any standing water, you could use a mop if there isn’t a lot of water or maybe some towels.
Check the floor above for signs of damp. If there is a property above you we would recommend you speak to the occupant above to see if they are also suffering signs of a leak. If there is a roof above, please see our answer to “Water stains have appeared in my property after heavy rainfall. What do I do? “. If there is a bathroom or shower above the area this could also be the source of the leak. You could investigate using a simple water test with a showerhead around your bath and shower seals.
This could be a sign of a leak on the central heating system or a problem with the boiler
The ground source heating systems are a very efficient and environmentally friendly way of collecting heat but when they go wrong, they go terribly wrong. Unfortunately, because of the amount of piping buried under the floor they can become very susceptible to leaks, which can be extremely difficult to locate within the floor surface. We have helped various customers locate leaks in these systems with enormous success. We like a completed leak so I guess we’ll keep looking until we find it.
Please don’t hesitate to contact one of our knowledgeable customer service representatives.
This is a service we offer. It includes all the aspects of Trace and Access but also includes fixing the leak which will often only take a day to complete. Trace and access is an Insurance term for non-destructively tracing the area of the leak and then exposing the leak i.e. excavating concrete or removing floorboards. The chances are you may be covered for this under your home or buildings insurance policy but you will have to check your policy wording handbook to see if you’re covered.
Leak Detection is the finding of hidden leaks. Unlike others, we complete leak detection in a non-destructive manner, minimising disruption to your commercial or residential premises.
Non-destructive Leak Detection is where we use various pieces of equipment to pinpoint the area without damaging your property.
Research has shown that a typical household loses 2,000 to 20,000 gallons of water per year due to leaks. As a result, no water leak should ever be overlooked, irrespective of its size. Even a seemingly small leak can lose approximately 20 litres of water every hour!
This may be a sign of a leak, possibly that’s been ongoing a while. Please see our answer to “how do I know I’ve got a leak?” above to get a quick idea of how to diagnose a leak. It is also likely that you will require drying to the property to prevent further mould growth. We can carry out moisture surveys to advise you on the condition of your home and suggest the best resolution for you.
Your property should not show any signs of damp. It may be as simple as a spillage but could be something more complicated. However, if you are still in any doubt, please feel free to contact us and speak to one of our operatives who will talk you through some simple tests.
As a company, we have dealt with a variety of different commercial properties, each with different requirements. We know that each property will have different requirements and different ways they want to work to and we can adapt to that to suit you. Please call us free.
We are generally called out to schools, playgrounds, car parks, fields and generally use specialist methods to detect leeks one of the main see signs is a pooling area on a dry day or a moist spot which is always an indication of a leak. My ground heating system is losing pressure It’s a shame but due to the number of pipes buried in concrete it’s always one of the main causes of a leak in a property and extremely difcult to locate due to the swirl of pipes sometimes but if there’s a leak we are sure to find it.
All modern homes are required to be fitted with an inside and outside mains water stopcock, so don’t worry if you can’t find yours under the kitchen sink! Many properties have their mains water stopcock positioned in an airing cupboard, under the bathroom sink, in a utility cupboard, under your floorboards by your front door, within a garage, cellar or behind a panel next to your boiler. Apartment buildings often share a mains water stopcock so if you are having trouble finding yours why not ask your neighbours?
If one of your radiators is not heating up or is cold, it could just need bleeding. However, if bleeding the radiator does not work or if it is linked with any other symptoms outlined in this FAQ, it could be a sign of a leak.
This could be an indication of a leak on a regular/gravity fed heating system or a leak from a water storage tank. If you can access your storage tanks, look to see which is filling as this will give you an indication of which the system is suffering the problem.
Clear away any furniture that may be positioned directly in front or underneath the water stains. Perform a visual check of your guttering to ensure there are no blockages. This can easily be caused by leaves and other organic material. Check to make sure that there are no drains outside the property that are overflowing. If the leak stops when it stops raining the issue is likely to reappear during the next heavy rainfall so leak detection may still be required. The property may also require drying as the majority of moisture is not visible and is retained within the structure of the building.
are not all visible. These can include damp patches, high water bills, damp smells, boiler issues and even subsidence. Please read further on for more information on how to recognise leaks and what to do. Alternatively, you can contact us and one of our advisors will assist you.
Your plumber will carry out basic methods of tracing a leak whereas a leak detection expert will use specialist machinery and technology to pinpoint a leak without having to tear your premises apart.
Trace and Access (or “Track and Trace”) is an Insurance term for non-destructively tracing the area of the leak and then exposing the leak i.e. excavating concrete or removing floorboards. If you are covered for this it will be detailed in your policy handbook. However, your insurance company is unlikely to cover the actual fixing of the leak.
 
Often your insurer will ask you to find your own leak detection company and they will then reimburse you once the leak is found. Please check your policy handbook to see if you are covered.
Category: Mains Water Leaks

If left undetected a leak on an incoming mains water pipe can be a serious issue. This is because the leak is often hidden deep underground or within the property’s floor or walls.

These types of leak are often difficult to detect without the proper equipment and expertise. Mains water leaks can lead to extensive water damage to your property, or even structural damage if soil and granular material is washed away causing subsidence.

Mains water leaks also waste a lot of water with consequent high water bills and negative environmental impact. It’s vital that these types of leaks are resolved as quickly as possible. A leak detection expert can help identify the source of the leak efficiently to minimise damage and costs.

Yes, all of our engineers are fully trained with all of our non-invasive Leak Detection equipment and well versed in identifying all types of leak. Our team are also health and safety trained and carry the appropriate certifications. We combine our technical expertise with years of hands-on experience.

A good indication of a leak can be one of the following symptoms:

    • Unexpected increase in your water bill
    • Damp patches, mould, or musty smells
    • Low boiler pressure or heating issues
    • Sounds of running water when nothing is on

If you notice any of these symptoms then it’s best to call us for a professional inspection. DIY detection can often cause unnecessary damage or additional costs by misdiagnosing the route of the issue.

Yes, If the leak reappears or wasn’t accessible during the initial visit, we offer follow-up inspections. Let us know if anything changes and we will asses whether a revisit is necessary.

Yes we can. We use a variety of advanced leak detection technologies such as tracer gas, acoustic leak detection, thermal imaging cameras, bore scopes and more. Our equipment allows us to identify leak sources with minimal to no damage to your property.

We won’t know what kind of equipment will be required without further information when we arrive at the property.

Yes, we can detect leaks in pressurised heating systems, combi boiler or even sealed systems. We frequently detect leaks in sealed heating systems, including combi boilers, pressurised cylinders and underfloor heating. If your system continues to lose pressure or your boiler needs topping up regularly, you most likely have a hidden heating leak.

Absolutely, we specialise in locating leaks under solid floors. This includes concrete floors, tiled floors and even wooden flooring. This is achievable without having to rip everything up. Using our thermal and acoustic Leak Detection technology, we can pinpoint the issue with minimal disruption.

Yes, we are able to detect leaks from showers, baths, toilets and even hidden plumbing. These are all very common types of leak. Our team can trace leaks behind tiled walls, under trays and beneath floors, often without having to break through until we are certain of the location.

Yes. We can locate leaks in underground pipes, external mains, or even under driveways and gardens using specialist equipment like acoustic ground microphones and tracer gas.

Definitely, we work in high-rise flats, apartments and multi-occupancy buildings. If a leak is affecting your flat (or coming from a neighbouring unit), we can help locate its source and work with the building management if needed.

If access to the property is required to confirm the cause of the leak (such as: lifting flooring, making inspection holes etc), we will do our best to keep things as clean and safe as possible. We always discuss our process with our clients beforehand and aim to leave the area as tidy as possible. However, full restoration (e.g. tiling, flooring and filling holes is not included), unless arranged separately.

Yes, hidden leaks behind walls or under floors often lead to mould, damp and structural damage. We detect the source of the leak and can assist you with reports for insurance purposes or recommend repair options.

Yes, if you’re experiencing damp walls, mould or water entering the property from the outside, we can carry out a damp ingress investigation. This identifies whether it’s caused by a plumbing leak, roof issue, rising damp or pool sealing.

If you require additional support, such as a re-visit after plumbing or repairs have taken place, or to help with insurance paperwork then we are happy to assist. Just contact us with your job reference or report ID.

Our main service is Leak Detection, but we also offer same-day repairs for many issues. This especially relates to plumbing and heating-related leaks. If repairs require specialist works (such as structural or draining), we can recommend trusted partners, we are also happy to work with your existing local contractors.

Yes, every Leak Detection includes a professional photographic and written report detailing:

  • The type of leak and it’s location
  • How we identified the leak
  • Recommended next steps
  • Photographic evidence for insurance purposes or repair use

This is typically provided within the same day or within 24 hours.

Absolutely, we work regularly with the following, property owners and occupants:

  • Landlords and tenants
  • Estate agents and letting agents
  • Facility management companies
  • Schools, offices and industrial sites

We also provide reports, photographic evidence and ongoing communications to suit all stakeholders.

Booking is easy. You can contact us via one of the following methods:

We aim to respond as quickly as possible and typically schedule visits within 48 hours. In the event of an emergency we may be able to arrange a visit sooner.

Category: Mains Water Leaks

To detect a mains water leak, first turn off all water to your property and check the water meter flow indicator. If it continues to move, you have a leak. Next, turn off the main internal stopcock and check the meter again to see if it stops moving, which suggests the leak is within your property boundary. If the leak continues, professional leak detection methods such as acoustic equipment, thermal imaging, tracer gas, or moisture meters are used to locate the leak.

Flats can be tricky. This could be a leak in your flat or coming from another flat above. Is the leak coming from the ceiling or in any particular room? Pipe work in flats can “often require trace and access”. Please check for symptoms and write down notes of your findings Be sure to contact your insurance to see if you are covered before contacting your leak detection expert.

Most Leak Detection visits take between 1.5 – 3 hours. This varies depending on  the size of the property and the type of leak. Complex or multiple leaks may take longer to trace. Of course, we will always keep you informed throughout the process.

Absolutely, we take your privacy seriously. Any reports, images or data collected during a job are stored securely and never shared without your permission. Our team follows GDPR guidelines and confidentiality best practices. If you’re interesting in finding out about the data we store about you then please feel free to read our privacy policy or contact us directly.

Many insurance policies cover “Trace and Access” costs, which is what our Leak Detection works fall under. We will provide a report you can use for your claim. Always check with your insurer to see if you are covered  on your policy before hiring a Leak Detection expert.

Category: Mains Water Leaks

For commercial or rented properties it’s worth contacting your estate agent or building management company. For owners it could be that the leak is coming from elsewhere, look for soil movement and water damage and consult your leak detection expert to investigate further.

Category: Mains Water Leaks

There are several symptoms that help to detect a mains water leak including damp patches on the walls, floors or ceilings. Unusually high water bills and low water pressure in taps and showers.

If you hear a hissing, knocking or gurgling sound from your pipework then this can also be an indication of a leak. You can also look for lush, unusually green patches of grass in your garden, especially during dry weather.

Other indicators can be cracks in paving or subsidence in your garden or driveway.

We use a wide range of specialist Leak Detection equipment to detect the source of a leak. The equipment used will vary depending on the type of leak.

Such equipment consists of:

  • Thermal imaging cameras
  • Acoustic listening devices
  • Tracer gas
  • Moisture meters
  • Borescopes and endoscopic cameras

Our equipment allows us to locate leaks under floors, inside walls or underground without causing any unnecessary damage to the property.

Once we have located the source of the leak, we will provide:

  • A detailed report identifying the leak with photo’s, details and the location
  • Recommendations for repair
  • In many cases, we can offer same day repair (depending on access and the severity of the leak).

If you prefer, we can also coordinate with your existing plumber.

Category: Trace And Access

Your renovation work should come with insurance. It’s worth contacting your contractors first to investigate and then if necessary follow up with your local plumber. Before contacting a leak detection expert be sure to check your home insurance for “trace and access” cover.

Intermittent leaks can be tricky but we are equipped to handle them. Our thermal imaging, acoustic testing and system pressure monitoring technologies allow us to detect leaks, even if they are not actively leaking at the moment of inspection

Trace and Access refers to the process of locating a hidden leak. Many insurance policies cover the cost of finding the leak, but not always the damage it caused. Our service is designed to provide the full documentation required for Trace and Access claims to your property.

If you need to cancel your appointment, please provide us with at least 48 hours notice. Cancellation charges will be applied if you cancel within 48 hours of the agreed appointment time. For full details, please read our terms and conditions before booking with us.

We accept major payment methods including:

  • Debit and credit cards
  • Bank transfers
  • Invoicing for business customers
Category: Mains Water Leaks
  1. Turn off all water: inside and outside your home.
  2. Locate your water meter, usually outside near your property line.
  3. Check the flow indicator: on the meter. This is often a red or white triangle on the dial. If it’s still moving, there is water being used, indicating a leak.
  4. Turn off the internal stopcock: or water shutoff valve to your home.
  5. Check the meter again . If the flow indicator stops moving, the leak is within your property’s boundary and possibly inside your house.
    If the meter is still moving after turning off the internal stopcock, the leak is likely in your external main supply pipe, between the meter and the internal stopcock.

We provide services for commercial, industrial and residential properties of all sizes. Whether it’s a domestic home, office building or rental property, we have the tools and experience to locate leaks accurately and efficiently.

Heating leaks generally involve incoming mains or pipework feeding taps and toilets etc. Whereas heating leaks typically relate to boiler systems, radiators, underfloor heating or pipework within the central heating system.

Our team of Leak Detection engineers are well trained in location both types of leaks in domestic and commercial properties using specialist tools. This also helps us to minimize damage to the property.

Leak Detection 24/7 has engineers located throughout the South East of the United Kingdom. When we book you in, we will allocate the nearest available engineer to visit your property. Our dedicated and professional team of leak detection specialists have years of experience locating all kinds of leaks and are never too far away. So If you’re looking for a “Leak Detection Specialists Near Me”, then look no further.

Another great thing about us is that we are available 24/7. So if you’re looking for round the clock leak detection services, then look no further. Leak Detection 24/7 has you covered.

Leak Detection 24/7 are a 5 Star Google Rated business, with over 134+ reviews. We provide our services for both residential and commercial properties throughout the United Kingdom. We have a 99.8 success rate in finding all kinds of leaks.

Simply put, our engineers used advanced leak detection technologies to help us identify the source of a leak with minimal impact to your business and in many cases, no damage to your property.

We do offer trace and access and are also available 24/7.

A drop in boiler pressure can often indicate a leak in your central heating system. Especially in underfloor pipes or joints. Our team specialises in detecting these kinds of heating leaks with minimal disruption.

Yes we provide reports on the details of the leak in your property. This contains details on how we found the leak and the methods of detection used to locate it. This will aid in your insurance claim, which is covered under “trace and access” on most commercial, residential and industrial insurance policies. Before seeking help from a Leak Detection Specialist, please ensure that you check the details of your policy first to ensure you are covered.

In most cases no. Our non-invasive Leak Detection technology allows us to detect leaks through floors, tiles and walls without having to drill or remove anything. If access to the property is required, we will always get your approval first before any works take place.

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