Understand the problem
A solid floor does not make leak detection impossible, but it changes how the investigation must be interpreted. Pipe depth, insulation, membranes and the floor finish influence what can be measured at the surface. The objective is to reduce the access area using several pieces of evidence.
Understand the floor layers before choosing access
We review any known pipe routes and floor construction, assess the affected system and choose suitable methods. A thermal pattern may suggest a warm pipe route; moisture can show the spread of an escape; tracer testing may help refine the area. None should be treated as a promise of an exact point without considering the floor layers and confirming evidence.
Signs that make an investigation worthwhile
- A warm or damp area on a solid floor
- Heating pressure loss with buried pipework
- Lifting floor finishes without an obvious source
- Water emerging at floor edges or thresholds
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.
Tracer-gas leak detection
A suitable specialist tracer-gas test can help locate an escape from an isolated pipe section. A sensitive detector is used to investigate where the gas emerges above or around the suspected route.
How this method worksThermal imaging
A thermal camera shows differences in surface temperature. Those patterns can help identify heating-pipe routes, unusual warmth or cooling and areas worth investigating more closely.
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
Tell us about underfloor heating, insulation, membranes and any specialist floor finish. Building plans or refurbishment photos can make the access discussion more productive.
Important scope information
Necessary access for the agreed plumbing repair is included; reinstatement of screed finishes, tiles, timber, carpet or other decorative and remedial surfaces is excluded.
£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?
Tell us about underfloor heating, insulation, membranes and any specialist floor finish. Building plans or refurbishment photos can make the access discussion more productive.
What are the practical limits or exclusions?
Necessary access for the agreed plumbing repair is included; reinstatement of screed finishes, tiles, timber, carpet or other decorative and remedial surfaces is excluded.
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.
