Understand the problem
An incoming supply leak can waste a substantial amount of water without producing visible flooding. A meter that keeps recording use, a supplier leak notice or a wet area above a buried route may be the first indication. Understanding which section of pipe is affected helps determine the next step.
Establish the supply route and isolation points
We consider the meter position, known stop valves, changes of pipe material and whether the supply is shared. Appropriate checks help assess the section serving the property. Ground listening and tracer methods may help narrow the likely leak location beneath soil or hardstanding. Once the evidence supports access, we explain the excavation and repair approach for the agreed job.
Signs that make an investigation worthwhile
- A meter recording water with known uses off
- A water-company leak notification
- Persistent wet ground above a supply route
- Reduced flow accompanied by unexplained consumption
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.
Acoustic 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.
How this method worksTracer-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.
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
Provide the supplier’s letter, recent readings and any knowledge of shared supplies. Make safe access to meter positions available. Tell us about driveways, boundaries, gates and known underground services.
Important scope information
Ownership and responsibility for the affected pipe need to be established. Public-network faults, shared supplies and work outside the agreed private section may need a different arrangement.
£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?
Provide the supplier’s letter, recent readings and any knowledge of shared supplies. Make safe access to meter positions available. Tell us about driveways, boundaries, gates and known underground services.
What are the practical limits or exclusions?
Ownership and responsibility for the affected pipe need to be established. Public-network faults, shared supplies and work outside the agreed private section may need a different arrangement.
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.