Frequently asked questions.

Rarely. Surveys are non-invasive, so there is usually no digging or floor-lifting to cordon off, and in most cases the shop can keep trading while we work.

We have engineers based across England, Scotland and Wales, so we can usually get to you fast. We aim to find and repair the leak on the same day wherever the job allows. Call 0333 567 2615 for availability in your area.

Find the water meter and stopcock if you can, note any readings and the time, and clear access to the plant room, toilets and the area behind the tills. If you have plans of the unit or know where the pipework runs, have them ready. Tell us about anything that cannot be moved or switched off.

Most single-unit surveys are completed in one visit. Larger sites, long external pipe runs and multi-tenant buildings can take longer, and we agree that with you before the engineer is booked.

By combining methods. Thermal imaging shows the temperature change from a hot pipe, acoustic sensors hear water escaping under pressure, and tracer gas rises through concrete and tile to a detector on the surface. When the methods agree, we mark the spot.

The survey establishes where the water is coming from as far as the evidence allows, and the report says so. With the neighbour’s or landlord’s permission we survey the other unit too. Responsibility for the repair is a matter for the leases and insurers.

Yes. Underground supply pipes are found with acoustic ground microphones, leak correlators and tracer gas, which works through tarmac, concrete and block paving without breaking it up first.

Yes. Roof and ceiling leaks are traced with moisture mapping, thermal imaging and, for large flat roofs, drone inspection. The report shows where the water is getting in rather than only where it is showing up.

The investigation is still chargeable, as set out in our terms. You get a written account of what was tested and ruled out, and our advice on the next step.

Yes. Where the repair is straightforward we aim to complete it on the same visit. For anything bigger, you get the exact location and a report so your own contractor can go straight to it.

Our reports are written for insurance claims: the cause, the location, thermal images and what was done. Businesses and loss adjusters use them for trace-and-access claims.

The site and date, why we attended, the tests carried out with readings, the findings and exact location, the cause as far as it can be established, thermal images and photographs, and recommendations. Any repair done on the day is listed separately. More on reports for claims.

The survey itself is non-invasive, so there is nothing to make good. If a small opening is needed to confirm or repair the leak, it is agreed with you first and made at the confirmed spot, and the engineer tidies up before leaving.

We quote before we start, based on the premises, the type of leak and how much pipework is involved. Call 0333 567 2615 with what you have noticed and we will give you a price for the investigation.

Yes. For estates and portfolios we quote per site on the same basis and can plan visits by region so one engineer covers several branches in a day where that suits you.

Yes. With 25 engineers nationwide we look after single kiosks and whole estates. Facilities and property teams get one number and the same report format on every site.

We carry £5 million public liability insurance and are accredited by CIPHE, WIAPS, WaterSafe and SPATA. Every engineer has at least ten years’ leak detection experience.

Retail Leak Detection is the retail-premises service of ADI Leak Detection, a trading name of ADI Leak Solutions Ltd (company no. 15870765). Same engineers, same equipment and the same Trustpilot record, focused on shops, supermarkets, centres and retail parks.

The registered office is in Bourne End, and the engineers are based across England, Scotland and Wales so the nearest one comes to you. See the areas we serve.