Non-destructive leak detection in Northern Ireland
Investigate the source of a hidden leak before agreeing access and repairs. Specialist methods can help reduce unnecessary opening-up of floors and walls.
Investigate first. Make informed decisions.
When the source of a leak is hidden, the visible damp patch may not tell the whole story. A structured investigation helps narrow the search and gives you a clearer basis for deciding what work is needed.
Non-destructive detection aims to limit unnecessary disturbance. It does not guarantee that every leak can be found without opening part of the property, or that access will not be needed to repair it.
Explore the water leak-detection serviceTell us what has changed
Describe recurring damp or staining, unexplained pressure loss, or the sound of running water when you do not expect it. These are reasons to investigate, rather than proof of a particular fault.
Tell us which rooms or systems are affected, what has already been checked and whether pipework is concealed by tiles, flooring or fitted units. We take enquiries for homes and businesses across Northern Ireland.
See the areas coveredMethods chosen for the investigation
01 / Thermal imaging
Look for temperature patterns
Thermal cameras show surface temperature differences that can help direct an investigation. They do not see through walls or directly prove the presence of water; findings need to be interpreted alongside other checks.
02 / Acoustic detection
Listen for leak noise
Acoustic equipment helps detect sounds associated with escaping water. Its usefulness depends on the pipework, surrounding material and conditions at the property.
The contractor decides which tests suit the suspected leak and the property. A combination of checks may be needed; no single method is the right answer for every job.
Agree what happens after testing
Ask the contractor to explain the findings, any uncertainty and the proposed next step. If further access is needed, agree the area to be opened, the cost and who will put it right afterwards.
Independent engineers usually fix the leak and carry out repairs. Same-visit repairs depend on the leak, access and agreed scope. Detection, access, repair and reinstatement should be clear in the quote.
How the service worksNeed evidence for a possible claim?
If you want help with a trace-and-access or water-damage claim, a leak-detection report is needed. Ask whether it is included in the survey quote and what it will contain.
Insurance cover depends on your policy and circumstances. A separate PCLA loss-assessor callback is available on request; any escape-of-water damage survey is a different service from the leak-detection report.
Read about trace and accessNon-destructive detection questions
Does non-destructive mean no damage at all?
No. The aim is to reduce unnecessary opening-up. Access may still be needed to investigate further, confirm the source or carry out a repair.
Can thermal imaging see the pipe through my floor?
A thermal camera shows surface temperature patterns. It does not provide an X-ray view of concealed pipework. The contractor assesses the image alongside other information.
Can this approach reduce repair work?
Narrowing the search may reduce unnecessary opening-up, but the repair and reinstatement needed depend on the property and what is found. There is no guaranteed saving.
How do I arrange a survey?
Call or request a callback with the postcode and a short description. Discuss the survey scope, price and report requirements before booking. You contract with and pay the independent contractor directly.
Discuss a hidden-leak investigation
Tell us what you have noticed and where the property is. We can discuss the next step and your survey enquiry.