Leak Detection in Bronte

Damp walls in Bronte's Federation cottages are tricky because the original construction - brick walls, lime mortar, timber framing - can transport moisture in ways that modern builds don't. Water from a leaking pipe in the roof cavity can travel down a timber stud and show as damp at floor level, metres from the actual leak. We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to map the wet zone, then trace the moisture path back to its source. Common causes in Federation homes are corroded copper joints in wall cavities, failed roof flashings letting rain in, and deteriorating waterproof membranes in upstairs bathrooms.

Yes, and it's a common scenario in Bronte's interwar semis. A leaking pipe in the adjoining property's wall cavity can show as dampness on your side of the party wall. We trace the moisture path with thermal imaging and moisture meters to determine which side the leak originates from. If it's from next door, we document our findings so you can raise it with your neighbour or their plumber. We can't enter next door without permission, but our documentation shows exactly what was found and where.

We use a combination of acoustic listening equipment, thermal imaging, and pressure testing. This lets us pinpoint the exact location of a leak without unnecessary demolition. We find the leak first, then discuss the best repair option with you.

Very likely. A running toilet can waste 25,000+ litres per quarter. A hidden pipe leak can be even more. We can do a water meter test to confirm - if the meter's still ticking when everything's turned off, you've got a leak.

Yes. Slab leaks are our speciality. Using acoustic and thermal equipment, we can locate the leak through concrete without exploratory digging. Once found, we'll discuss repair options - often we can reline the pipe rather than jackhammer the slab.

Call us first. We'll find and fix the leak, and provide documentation that your insurer will need for any water damage claim. Most home insurance covers the damage caused by the leak, though not always the plumbing repair itself.

Every 5 years, even if they look fine. Flexi hoses under sinks and basins are the #1 cause of home insurance claims in Australia - they account for 20% of all household water damage claims, with an average cost of $27,500 per incident. Check the date stamp on yours. If there's no date or it's older than 5 years, book a replacement. It's a quick, inexpensive job that prevents a potentially catastrophic failure.

Detection cost depends on the scope. A straightforward visible leak is quicker to confirm than a slab leak or hidden wall leak requiring acoustic and thermal equipment. We quote the detection and repair separately after we've confirmed the source — you agree to the price before we proceed. $0 callout fee during business hours.