External water leak detection uses a combination of non-invasive technologies to accurately identify leaks in underground or external pipework. Our engineers may use acoustic listening devices to detect the sound of escaping water, thermal imaging to locate temperature changes, or tracer testing to pinpoint exact leak positions. These methods minimise disruption while ensuring fast, reliable results every time.

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External Leak Detection
Protecting your property and reducing unnecessary costs begins with professional water leak detection. External leaks in particular can be difficult to identify, as much of the pipework that supplies your home or business runs underground and out of sight, increasing the risk of damage to your property if leaks go undetected. An underground leak can lead to significant structural issues and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Without intervention, hidden leaks may cause rising water bills; a higher water bill is often an early indicator of a leak, property damage, and wasted resources.
At Hamblin Watermains, our team uses industry-leading methods to accurately locate leaks with minimal disruption, ensuring fast water pipe repairs and long-term peace of mind. As market leaders in leak detection, we combine advanced technology and expertise to deliver the highest quality service.
What Is External Leak Detection?
External leak detection refers to the process of locating leaks in water supply pipes that run outside of your property, either underground or across outdoor spaces. Water mains are another common area where external leaks can occur. Unlike leaks inside, which may show visible signs inside your home, external leaks are often concealed beneath soil, tarmac, or concrete, making them much harder to detect without professional support.
As specialist engineers, we use a combination of advanced acoustic listening equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and tracer systems to pinpoint the precise location of the leak. These methods allow us to detect leaks efficiently without the need for large-scale excavation. By identifying leaks early, you avoid costly repairs, water damage, and long-term disruption to your property.
Signs of an External Water Leak
The first sign of an external water leak may be subtle and easy to miss. Although leaks underground or outdoors are not always easy to spot, there are several warning signs that suggest you may need external leak detection. One of the most common indicators is an unexpected rise in your water bills, even when your usage remains the same. This suggests that water is escaping somewhere along the supply line. You can perform a simple test using your water meter: take meter readings before and after a period when no water is being used in the property. If the meter readings change, this could indicate a leak.
Another key sign is the presence of damp patches or pools of water in your garden, driveway, or patio that do not dry out even in warm weather. You may also notice areas of unusually green or soft grass, which can occur when a leak is providing a constant water source beneath the surface.
Low water pressure inside your property is another red flag, especially if you notice a noticeable drop in pressure and neighbours are not experiencing the same issue. Paying attention to these early signs is essential, as they may indicate that your underground supply pipe is leaking and requires immediate investigation.
Why Hamblin Watermains?
Hamblin Watermains is a trusted specialist in external water leak detection, with decades of experience providing reliable services across the South East. Our focus is on delivering accurate results quickly and with minimal disruption to your property. We are able to fix leaks quickly, often providing fixed price quotes and ensuring leaks are repaired promptly, sometimes on the same day.
We use advanced, non-invasive technology to detect leaks, ensuring unnecessary digging is avoided wherever possible. This not only reduces disruption but also ensures a faster, more cost-effective solution. Our engineers are fully trained and highly experienced, bringing a wealth of knowledge to each project, from small domestic leaks including central heating system leaks and fixing such issues, to large commercial supply issues and lead water pipe replacement.
Another reason to choose Hamblin Watermains is our transparent approach. We provide clear explanations and quotes before carrying out any work, so you know exactly what to expect. We also understand that dealing with leaks can be stressful, which is why we offer comprehensive support, including detailed reports that provide all the information needed for a successful insurance claim and assistance when working with your insurance company.
As a local company with a strong reputation, we pride ourselves on fast response times and a customer-first approach. By choosing us, you can be confident that your water leak detection needs are in safe hands.
Book Your External Leak Detection Today
If you suspect an external leak, it is important to act quickly. Small leaks can become major problems if left unresolved, leading to structural damage, landscape issues, or even subsidence in severe cases. Early detection not only reduces the risk of damage but also saves money by preventing wasted water and rising bills.
Booking external water leak detection with Hamblin Watermains is simple. Our friendly team will arrange a convenient time to visit your property, carry out an inspection using advanced equipment, and provide a clear explanation of the issue along with the next steps. Whether you are a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, we can help safeguard your property from hidden water leaks.
Contact us today to arrange professional leak detection and protect your property before the problem worsens.
External Leak Detection FAQs
How does external water leak detection work?
Why is it important to detect external leaks early?
Catching external leaks early is essential because it prevents significant property damage, reduces wasted water, and saves you from unexpectedly high bills. Undetected leaks can cause erosion, damp patches, and even structural movement over time. By arranging professional detection as soon as you notice the warning signs, you minimise costs and protect the long-term condition of your property.
Is the process disruptive to my property?
The cost of internal leak detection varies depending on the size of the property, the complexity of the plumbing system, and the location of the leak. We believe in full transparency, so we provide clear pricing information before any work begins. This ensures customers understand the costs involved and feel confident they are receiving value for money.
Can you help with insurance claims?
Yes, we provide detailed reports and documentation that can assist you when making a claim with your building insurance provider. Having clear professional evidence of the leak location and extent of the damage often helps insurers process claims more efficiently, reducing stress for you as a property owner and ensuring you receive the support you are entitled to.
How quickly can you respond to a suspected leak?
We understand that leaks need urgent attention, which is why we aim to respond as quickly as possible. In many cases, we can arrange an engineer visit within a short timeframe, ensuring your leak is investigated and resolved without delay. Acting fast helps reduce both water loss and the risk of further property damage.