Leak Detection – External Cold Mains Water Leak 

The Problem

A farmhouse owner contacted us after experiencing extremely low water pressure throughout the property. Alongside this issue, surface water had started pooling in the entrance yard and was even flowing onto a nearby highway, creating a potential hazard. The situation called for urgent investigation and repair. A leak in the external cold mains supply could lead to: 

• Increased water bills – A single undetected leak can waste thousands of litres of water.
• Property damage – Prolonged water exposure can erode foundations and compromise structural integrity.
• Health & safety risks – Water pooling on surfaces can cause slip hazards and damage roads.

In the UK, water leaks cost businesses and homeowners over £900 million annually, with some properties losing up to 400 litres of water per day from undiagnosed leaks. Our priority was to quickly locate and resolve the issue to prevent further damage and unnecessary costs.

The Solution

Our leak detection specialists followed a targeted, non-invasive approach to pinpoint the source of the leak efficiently.

Step 1: Site Investigation

Upon arrival, we conducted a detailed assessment and confirmed that the escaping water was coming from the cold mains supply pipe. Given the volume of water loss, we needed to act fast.

Using specialist leak detection equipment, we accurately identified the precise location of the leak within the ground. Once pinpointed, we carried out a sympathetic excavation—a careful digging process that minimises disruption to the surrounding area.

Before excavation, we scanned the ground using a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) to detect buried utility lines, preventing accidental damage to electrical, gas, or telecommunications cables. This ensures safety and avoids costly repairs to additional infrastructure.

Upon exposing the leaking pipe joint, our engineers installed a new section of pipework, restoring full functionality. The repair was tested, and once confirmed successful, the excavation site was fully reinstated.

Step 2: Advanced Leak Detection Techniques

• Acoustic Profiling – This method listens for sound variations caused by water escaping under pressure. By using sensitive microphones and filters, we detected the exact leak location without unnecessary digging.
• Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) Scanning – Essential for external leak detection, this tool ensures that excavation work does not interfere with underground utilities, reducing risks and speeding up repairs.

Both techniques offer key benefits:

• Non-invasive & precise – Eliminates guesswork and unnecessary digging.
• Faster detection & repair – Minimises downtime and disruption.
• Cost-effective – Reduces labour costs and prevents damage to other underground utilities.

The Result

Following our successful Leak Detection Survey, repair, and reinstatement, the farmhouse’s water supply was restored to normal pressure, with no further leaks evident.

• No additional work was required, saving the client time and money.
• Water bills were stabilised, preventing long-term financial losses.
• Surface water hazards were eliminated, ensuring safety on-site and on the nearby highway.

By using advanced leak detection methods like Acoustic Profiling and CAT scanning, we help protect properties, reduce costs, and prevent long-term damage.

If you suspect water ingress in your property, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Contact one of the team for a professional, non-invasive diagnosis and effective leak repair.