Understand the problem
Hot-water leaks can be concealed in walls, floor voids and service cupboards. Temperature differences can provide useful clues, but warmth alone does not confirm an escape. We consider when the pipe is in use, how the system is supplied and where the symptoms appear.
Use temperature as a clue and confirm the system behaviour
The investigation may combine visual checks, thermal imaging, moisture readings and suitable isolation or pressure testing. It is important to separate the domestic hot-water service from central heating pipework. Where a plumbing fault is established, suitable access and compatible repair materials are selected for the actual system.
Signs that make an investigation worthwhile
- Unexplained warm patches near a pipe route
- Damp appearing during or after hot-water use
- A hot-water service suspected of losing water
- Staining near a cylinder or service cupboard
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.
Thermal 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.
How this method worksPressure 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.
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 whether the home uses a combi boiler, cylinder or another hot-water arrangement, if known. Provide access to cupboards and relevant stop valves without removing covers or safety devices.
Important scope information
Work on specialist hot-water safety controls or gas appliances requires the appropriate competence and registration. These needs are assessed separately from a concealed pipe repair.
£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 whether the home uses a combi boiler, cylinder or another hot-water arrangement, if known. Provide access to cupboards and relevant stop valves without removing covers or safety devices.
What are the practical limits or exclusions?
Work on specialist hot-water safety controls or gas appliances requires the appropriate competence and registration. These needs are assessed separately from a concealed pipe repair.
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.