Water Leak Detection Plymouth
Leak Detection Plymouth, the Plymouth division of LPB Utilities, provides expert water leak detection services throughout Plymouth and the surrounding areas. With over 20 years of industry experience and the latest non-invasive technology, we specialise in detecting leaks in walls, floors, underground pipework, and mains water lines — all with minimal disruption to your property.
What’s Included in Our Leak Detection Service?
Internal & external leak identification using state-of-the-art equipment:
Thermal imaging
Tracer gas detection
Acoustic listening
CCTV inspection
Comprehensive diagnostics carried out before visible damage occurs
Detailed findings report, including photos, diagrams, and recommended next steps
Repair-ready or report-only flexibility — we can fix the leak directly, or provide documentation for insurers, plumbers, or South West Water
Emergency leak detection with fast callouts across Plymouth, including evenings and weekends
Non-Invasive Leak Detection
Modern, Non-Invasive Leak Detection in Plymouth
Non-invasive leak detection is the preferred method for locating hidden water leaks without the need for digging, drilling, or causing damage to your home or business. At LPB Utilities, we combine multiple advanced techniques to identify leaks quickly and precisely, keeping disruption to an absolute minimum.
Our expert methods include:
Tracer Gas Testing – A safe mix of hydrogen and nitrogen is introduced to the system to trace leaks through concealed pipework
Acoustic Detection – Sensitive ground microphones listen for the sound of escaping water, even through floors or underground
Thermal Imaging – Infrared cameras highlight temperature changes, ideal for locating leaks in hot water pipes or central heating systems
Water Pressure Testing – Measures for drops or inconsistencies that indicate possible pipe breaches
CCTV Inspections – Small cameras inspect the internal condition of pipes, spotting cracks, corrosion, or blockages
Consumption Analysis – Tracks water usage patterns to reveal slow, hidden leaks that might otherwise go unnoticed
Tracer Gas Leak Detection
Tracer gas leak detection provides a highly accurate, non-destructive method for locating concealed water leaks. The process involves introducing a safe, inert blend of hydrogen and nitrogen gas into the pipework under low pressure. As the gas escapes through the leak, it rises through materials like concrete, tiles, timber, and flooring, allowing our sensitive detection equipment to trace its exact path to the source.
This advanced technique is suitable for both residential and commercial properties, and is especially effective for identifying leaks in mains water supplies, internal plumbing systems, and underground pipe networks.
Thermal Imaging Leak Detection
Thermal imaging leak detection uses advanced infrared camera technology to identify subtle temperature changes on surfaces, often indicating the presence of hidden moisture or water leaks. This non-invasive method allows us to accurately trace leaks behind walls, under floors, or within heating systems — all without causing any damage.
It’s particularly effective for inspecting larger or more complex areas, offering a fast, mobile solution for detecting leaks in both domestic and commercial properties.
Typical Leak Types We Detect
| Leak Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Central heating leaks | Hidden pipework or radiator issues—drop in boiler pressure often first sign |
| Bathroom/drain leaks | Concealed leaks behind tiles, baths, sinks, shower trays |
| Water mains & service pipes | External leaks often show up as wet patches or high bills |
| Underfloor heating leaks | Detected via tracer gas or thermal imaging under embedded pipework |
| Structural/building leaks | Roof, wall, foundation leaks identified non-destructively |
| Swimming pools / irrigation systems | Structural or feed-line leaks detected efficiently |
Our Detection Process
Initial Survey: We assess suspected leak areas by evaluating visible symptoms and signs.
Diagnostic Testing: Using infrared cameras, tracer gas, acoustic tools, and CCTV, we perform thorough diagnostics.
Precise Leak Location: The exact leak is pinpointed with accuracy before any drilling or excavation begins.
Reporting: You will receive a comprehensive report including all findings, suitable for repair planning or insurance claims.
Repair Coordination: LPB Utilities can carry out the repair, support your chosen contractor, or provide the necessary documentation for South West Water to take action.
Get in Touch
For reliable, professional leak detection in Plymouth, contact the team at LPB Utilities today.
We’re happy to offer free, no-obligation quotes, fast callouts, and expert advice.
Areas We Cover
We serve the entire Plymouth region and surrounding areas, including:
- Torquay
- Brixham
- Paignton
- Marldon, Kingskerswell, Galmpton, and beyond
If you’re unsure whether we cover your area, just give us a call.