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Leak Detection: Our Guide to Finding Hidden Leaks

Leak Detection: Our Guide to Finding Hidden Leaks

What Is Leak Detection and Why Does It Matter?

Hidden leaks cause more damage than you think until it’s too late.

Did you know that a concealed water leak can waste up to 20,000 litres annually and lead to costly repairs? Our leak detection services aren’t just about saving on your water bill; it’s about protecting your home before water damage takes hold.

So, what is leak detection?

Leak detection is the process of locating water leaks hidden from view, behind walls, under floors, or within pipe systems. Our experts use non-invasive tools, like thermal cameras and sound sensors, to quickly identify the source. This way, they don’t need to pull your home apart.

For homeowners, acting early can prevent damp, mould, and structural issues. Even small leaks can damage your flooring, insulation, or foundations over time. Not sure where to start? Explore our homeowner advice hub for tips on identifying and preventing leaks year-round.

Signs You Might Have a Hidden Leak

How can you tell if there’s a leak you can’t see?

Many leaks don’t leave puddles or dripping taps. Instead, they tend to reveal themselves through subtle warning signs. If you know what to look for, you can catch the issue early and avoid long-term damage.

Common signs include:

  • A sudden increase in your water bill without extra usage
  • Damp or discoloured patches on ceilings, walls, or floors
  • Musty smells, especially in normally dry areas
  • Reduced water pressure from multiple taps
  • A boiler that keeps losing pressure for no apparent reason

If you’ve noticed one or more of these issues, it’s worth arranging a check with the team at Greenstar. Our engineers use advanced tools to find leaks quickly. This way, we can solve problems with minimal disruption. You can learn about that and more on our water leak detection service page.

How Professionals Detect Hidden Leaks

What do engineers use to find leaks without damaging your home?

At Greenstar, our skilled engineers use modern tools and their experience to find hidden leaks. They work efficiently, so there’s no guesswork or disruption.

We often start with acoustic leak detection. This involves using very sensitive listening devices to find the sound of water leaking through walls, floors, or pipes. The method is ideal for locating leaks in heating systems and beneath flooring.

Thermal imaging is another key technique. These infrared cameras detect small changes in surface temperature. This helps us spot moisture hidden behind plaster, tile, or concrete – without lifting any floorboards.

If a leak proves especially tricky, we use tracer gas testing, which involves safely pumping a harmless gas into your pipes. The gas escapes wherever a fault is detected above ground using specialist sensors.

To confirm our findings, we may also use moisture metres or miniature cameras to inspect tight or concealed spaces. These methods help us find the problem with pinpoint accuracy, keeping your home as undisturbed as possible.

Why Early Leak Detection Saves You Money

Think early leak detection sounds excessive? It could save you thousands.

Even a tiny leak can cause major damage over time. If you don’t fix it, your flooring might warp, timber structures could be damaged, or mould could grow. These problems cost much more to repair than the leak itself.

According to the Association of British Insurers, escape of water damage is one of the most common types of domestic property damage claims. In fact, insurers are paying out £1.8 million for it every day. And that figure doesn’t reflect the hassle of managing repairs, insurance claims, and delays in home use.

Here’s how leak detection can help:

  • Reduces wasted water and unexpected bill increases
  • Prevents costly property damage and structural issues
  • Avoids long-term moisture problems like damp and mould
  • Helps maintain the value of your home

If you’re unsure whether the signs you’ve spotted are serious, get in touch. We’ll explain what to expect and whether a survey is the right next step.

Can You Claim for Leak Detection on Home Insurance?

Worried about the cost? Your policy may already cover it.

Many home insurance policies in the UK include something called Trace and Access cover. This helps pay for the work required to locate and expose a hidden water leak, although it doesn’t usually cover the cost of the repair itself. If your policy includes this, you could claim back the cost of professional leak detection.

At Greenstar, we’ll support your claim with:

  • A full engineer’s report
  • Clear photographic evidence
  • An itemised invoice for your insurer

Before you book, it’s worth checking the wording of your home insurance policy or speaking with your provider. If you’d like help understanding what’s covered, our team is always happy to discuss it with you.

Why Choose Greenstar for Leak Detection?

For over 30 years, we’ve helped homeowners in Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. Being local, we’re more than aware of the problems local properties deal with, like ageing pipes, pressure issues, and damp problems.

Here’s what makes Greenstar the trusted choice:

  • Available 24/7 for urgent or flexible appointments
  • Fully qualified engineers with non-invasive tools
  • Approved by Checkatrade and the Buy With Confidence scheme
  • Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
  • Trusted by hundreds of local customers

You can browse honest feedback from people we’ve helped by visiting our case studies.

Book Your Water Leak Survey Today

Don’t wait for damage to spread – act now.

If you’ve noticed damp patches, rising bills, or a drop in boiler pressure, it’s time to investigate. Our engineers will arrive with all the equipment needed to pinpoint the problem quickly and cleanly. With us, there’s no guesswork and no unnecessary mess.

After assessment, we offer fast callouts, honest advice, and a no-obligation quote. Whether it’s a suspected leak or just peace of mind you’re after, Greenstar is here to help.

Call 01202 355 344 or book your leak detection survey online today.

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