Trace and Access Leak Detection

Our leak detection specialists use a range of water leak detection methods to find the source of a leak. The specialist

equipment doesn’t cause damage to your property. Most insurance companies insist on using these non invasive

methods when they’re processing a claim. “Trace & access” cover is part of most home insurance policies.

There isn’t one piece of water leak locating equipment that can be used to find any type of leak. Tracing water leaks usually involves a range of methods. The results from each trace and access test allow the investigation to be focused, while ruling out possible sources. Trace and access leak detection requires specialist knowledge and experience.

 

Thermal imaging

A thermal imaging camera shows surface temperatures without needing access or to insert probes into the structure of a property. Cool areas detected in building fabric can indicate the accumulation of moisture. Readings can help direct attention where it’s needed quickly. It’s probably the most used piece of equipment for trace and access leak detection.

It clearly shows the flow of hot water through pipes even when they’re concealed. It’s commonly used to find central heating leaks. Our experts also use them as part of flood tests to help pinpoint where water is entering a property, or where baths or showers aren’t correctly sealed. High-res images from the camera are included in reports.

 

Tracer gas

A non-harmful, odourless gas is released under pressure into drained pipes. A highly sensitive detection probe is used to locate where the gas is escaping from. The gas is lighter than air and rises quickly. It can penetrate all types of floor covering, including hardwood, laminate, tiles, carpet and vinyl. It can even penetrate concrete.

As well as being a reliable piece of water pipe leak detection equipment, tracer gas can also be used to find leaks in sections of flat roof. The gas can be released into ceiling voids. The probe is able to trace where it’s escaping through the roof covering.

Tracer gas is frequently utilised to find leaks in heating systems. However, it can’t always be used on water-fed underfloor systems.

 

Dye / flow tests

Fluorescent dyes are a method for visually tracing water leaks. They’re visible to the eye, but by using a UV lamp they can be seen in very low concentrations. This means they can highlight the position of a leak before droplets of water begin to form.

The water soluble dyes are added to pipes before water is released in them. Different dyes are available depending on the pipework being tested. For example, a specialist food dye that’s non-toxic is used when testing water supply pipes. Other dyes are available for wastewater and soil pipes or heating system pipes.

 

Borescope cameras

These flexible cameras allow our experts to look inside tight or closed spaces, such as a boiler cupboard or behind a washing machine with restricted access. They can be easily inserted into ceiling voids via light fittings. Small holes might need to be drilled in walls to investigate cavity space. However, they can be filled without difficulty afterwards to avoid damage to your home.

Providing our experts with visual evidence, they’re a useful and less damaging option to a fully invasive visual inspection. Images from the camera are saved and included as part of the survey report.

 

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