Water Leak Detection
Emergency Leak Detection, part of LPB Utilities, provides specialist water leak detection services across Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Marldon, Kingskerswell, Exeter, Tiverton, Dawlish, and Exmouth. With over 20 years of experience and advanced non-invasive technology, our skilled engineers accurately pinpoint leaks in walls, floors, underground pipes, and water mains — 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 offers rapid call-outs across Torbay and the surrounding South and Mid Devon areas, including evenings and weekends, ensuring urgent leaks are dealt with promptly.
Non-Invasive Leak Detection
Modern non-invasive leak detection is the go-to approach for identifying hidden leaks without the need for digging, drilling, or causing damage to your property. At LPB Utilities, we use a combination of advanced technologies that allow us to locate leaks quickly and accurately, with minimal disruption.
Our leak detection methods include:
Tracer gas testing – Uses safe hydrogen/nitrogen gas to track leaks through concealed pipework
Acoustic detection – Specialised microphones pick up the sound of escaping water
Thermal imaging – Infrared cameras detect heat loss from hot water or central heating systems
Water pressure testing – Identifies inconsistencies and potential breaches in the system
CCTV inspections – Miniature cameras check internal pipe conditions and faults
Consumption analysis – Monitors usage patterns to spot hidden or slow leaks
Tracer Gas Leak Detection
Tracer gas leak detection offers a highly effective, non-destructive way to pinpoint hidden water leaks. This method involves introducing a safe, inert mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen gas into the pipework under slight pressure. Because the gas is able to pass through materials like concrete, timber, tiles, and flooring, it rises to the surface—where sensitive detection equipment can trace its path and accurately identify the leak location.
This advanced technique is ideal for use in both residential and commercial settings, and works particularly well for tracing leaks in mains supply lines, internal pipework, and underground networks.
Thermal Imaging Leak Detection
Thermal imaging leak detection uses advanced infrared cameras to spot temperature changes on surfaces—often revealing the presence of hidden water leaks. By detecting subtle heat variations, this method allows us to trace leaks behind walls, under floors, or within heating systems without any need for disruption. It’s especially effective for surveying large or complex areas, thanks to its mobility and speed.
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 identify suspected leak areas based on symptoms
Diagnostic testing with infrared cameras, tracer gas, acoustic tools, CCTV
Precise location is pinpointed before any drilling or digging
Reporting: You’ll receive detailed documentation suitable for repair planning or insurance
Repair coordination: LPB Utilities can fix the leak directly, assist your own contractor, or provide the evidence needed for South West Water involvement
Get in Touch
For reliable, professional leak detection in Torbay, 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 provide emergency leak detection across the entire South and Mid Devon region, covering:
- Torquay
- Brixham
- Paignton
- Marldon, Kingskerswell, Galmpton, and beyond
If you’re unsure whether we cover your area, just give us a call.