FAQ
Explore Common Questions And Helpful Answers Right Here
What does a leak detection specialist do?
A leak detection specialist helps locate hidden water leaks that are not immediately visible. This may include leaks behind walls, under floors, within ceilings, in buried pipework, or within heating systems. The aim is to trace the source of the issue as accurately as possible so the right next step can be taken.
Do I need a leak detection specialist or a plumber?
If the source of the leak is obvious, a plumber may be able to deal with the repair straight away. If the problem is hidden or the source is unclear, leak detection can help narrow down where the issue is before repair work begins. This can help avoid unnecessary opening up, repeat visits, and guesswork.
What types of leaks do you deal with?
Rapid Leak Detection focuses on hidden water leaks affecting domestic and commercial properties. This can include:
- mains water leaks
- internal plumbing leaks
- central heating leaks
- underfloor heating leaks
- concealed pipework leaks
- other hidden water escapes within the property
Can you find a leak without damaging the property?
We use non-invasive methods where possible to help narrow down the source without unnecessary disruption. The aim is always to keep opening up to a minimum where we can. In some situations, access may still be needed once the leak has been identified.
What are the signs of a hidden water leak?
Common signs include:
- a sudden rise in your water bill
- damp patches with no obvious cause
- mould or musty smells
- staining o
- n walls, ceilings or floors
- bubbling paint or damaged finishes
- reduced water pressure
- the sound of running water when nothing is switched on
- warm spots on the floor
- boiler pressure dropping regularly
If the source is not clear, leak detection can help investigate further.
Do you deal with mains water leaks?
Yes. We can investigate hidden leaks affecting mains water supply pipework and other concealed water services where the source is not immediately visible.
Do you deal with central heating leaks?
Yes. We investigate hidden leaks affecting central heating systems, including issues where boiler pressure drops regularly or the source of the leak is still unclear.
Do you deal with underfloor heating leaks?
Yes. Underfloor heating leaks are one of the types of hidden leaks we can investigate. Because the pipework sits beneath the floor, it often makes sense to trace the source before any flooring is lifted.
Do you work on commercial properties?
Yes. We support both domestic and commercial customers. This includes homes, flats, managed properties, offices, retail premises, and other business properties affected by hidden water leaks.
Do you help landlords and property managers?
Yes. We work with homeowners, landlords, letting agents, property managers, and commercial clients who need help tracing hidden leaks and understanding the next step.
What happens during a leak detection visit?
The process usually starts with understanding the symptoms, the type of property, and any work already carried out. From there, the issue is investigated using the most suitable method for the situation. Once the source has been identified or narrowed down, the findings are explained clearly and any next steps can be discussed.
What happens after the leak is found?
Once the source has been traced, we explain what has been found and what that means. Depending on the job, the next stage may involve a report, trace and access, repair work, or further remedial action.
Do you provide reports?
Yes. Reports can be provided where needed. These can help document the findings of the leak investigation and support the next stage of the job.
What is trace and access?
Trace and access refers to tracing the source of a hidden leak and then gaining access to the affected area so the issue can be dealt with properly. This may involve opening up part of a wall, floor, ceiling, or another concealed area once the leak has been narrowed down.
Do you carry out trace and access work?
Yes. Where needed, we can carry out trace and access as part of the process.
Do you carry out repairs too?
Yes. Repair work can also be arranged once the source of the leak has been identified. This helps customers move from detection to resolution more clearly.
Do you only detect leaks, or can you fix them as well?
We can help with more than the detection stage. Where appropriate, we can also provide reports, carry out trace and access, and complete repairs.
Will I need to lift floors or open walls?
Not always. We try to narrow down the source as accurately as possible first, using non-invasive methods where suitable. If access is needed, it can then be approached in a more targeted way.
Can a hidden leak cause damp and mould?
Yes. Hidden leaks can lead to ongoing moisture problems, which may show up as damp patches, staining, mould growth, musty smells, or damage to walls, ceilings and floors.
Can a hidden leak increase my water bill?
Yes. A hidden water leak can sometimes cause a noticeable increase in your water bill, especially if water is escaping continuously over time.
Why does my boiler pressure keep dropping?
There can be different reasons for pressure loss, but one possible cause is a hidden leak somewhere within the heating system. If the issue keeps happening and the source is unclear, leak detection can help investigate further.
Can underfloor heating leak without obvious signs?
Yes. Because the system is hidden beneath the floor, leaks may show up indirectly through pressure loss, warm patches, moisture, or changes in flooring condition rather than obvious visible water.
Is leak detection worth it before starting repair work?
In many cases, yes. When the source of the problem is not clear, leak detection can help avoid unnecessary guesswork, repeat visits, and opening up the wrong area.
Do you cover my area?
We support customers across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and surrounding counties, with additional area coverage listed on the website. If you are unsure, get in touch and we can confirm.
How do I know which service I need?
If you are not sure which service fits your situation, contact us and we can point you in the right direction based on the signs you have noticed and the type of property involved.
Need help finding a hidden leak?
If you suspect a hidden water leak in your home, heating system or commercial property, get in touch with Rapid Leak Detection today.