Understand the problem
A cold-water service can leak continuously and remain hidden behind cabinetry, in a floor void or inside a wall. Condensation can also wet a cold pipe, so a damp surface needs to be interpreted carefully. Meter behaviour and sensible isolation can be valuable starting points.
Check the obvious uses before focusing on concealed pipes
We consider taps, toilets, tanks and appliance connections along with the concealed distribution. A passing toilet or automatic appliance may explain water use that looks like a hidden leak. Once a suspect section is identified, appropriate tests help narrow the location and support a targeted access plan.
Signs that make an investigation worthwhile
- Water use when no one is using a tap
- Damp around a cold-water pipe route
- Persistent moisture behind kitchen units
- A hidden feed suspected after visible fittings are checked
How we investigate
We choose methods around the question we need to answer, the system and the access available. Your job may require a combination of tests; every tool is not necessary on every visit.
Pressure testing
A controlled pressure test helps assess whether a suitable section of pipework holds pressure under the chosen test conditions. It is an important way to narrow an investigation before locating the escape.
How this method worksAcoustic leak detection
Escaping water can create sound that travels through pipework and surrounding materials. Specialist listening equipment helps an engineer compare those sounds at useful points.
What this method can establishFrom evidence to access and repair
Once the findings support a source area, we explain the necessary opening or excavation and the implications for the surrounding finish. Access is agreed before the plumbing is exposed for confirmation and repair. Suitable parts and materials are chosen for the system, including suitable water-supply fittings.
Appropriate checks follow the repair. The Written Trace & Access report records the relevant findings and work, with supporting photographs where appropriate. All work we carry out within the agreed scope has a one-year workmanship warranty.
Before we attend
Note appliances that use water automatically and any toilets that refill quietly. Keep safe access to service cupboards and stop valves available, and share recent readings where relevant.
Important scope information
A moving meter is evidence of consumption, not proof of the exact location. Shared supplies and automatic uses must be taken into account.
£1,750 residential total including applicable tax. £100 deposit deducted; £1,650 balance. Agreed scope applies. Decorative and remedial reinstatement excluded. Commercial work quoted separately.
An written record of the job
If you intend to claim, ask your insurer about approval and reporting requirements before attendance. The report supports the evidence for your submission, while the insurer decides cover, excesses and reimbursement under the policy. Detection, pipe repair and reinstatement may be treated differently.
Explore the report and claims processYour questions
What should I tell you before the visit?
Note appliances that use water automatically and any toilets that refill quietly. Keep safe access to service cupboards and stop valves available, and share recent readings where relevant.
What are the practical limits or exclusions?
A moving meter is evidence of consumption, not proof of the exact location. Shared supplies and automatic uses must be taken into account.
What does the £1,750 offer include?
For the agreed residential job, £1,750 includes investigation, specialist leak detection, tracing, necessary access or excavation, the plumbing repair, parts, materials, appropriate retesting and an Written Trace & Access report. It includes any applicable tax and a one-year workmanship warranty. Decorative and remedial reinstatement is excluded.
Can I claim the cost back on my home insurance?
You can submit our Written Trace & Access report and invoice to support a claim. Whether you can recover some or all of the cost depends on your policy, its trace-and-access provisions, excess, limits and your insurer’s decision. Ask about approval before the work. A report supports the evidence; it does not guarantee reimbursement.