Thermal imaging leak detection
For leaks hidden within your heating system or underfloor heating, our thermal cameras pinpoint the problem without damage to walls or floors.
Price guidefrom £650ex VAT
What we do
Tell us about the job so we can check the scope and the next step.
- Heating and underfloor heating leaks
- Behind walls and under tiles
- No damage to find the leak
- Included in the fixed-price survey
Thermal imaging leak detection in London
Our high-precision thermal cameras identify temperature differences caused by escaping water. Warm heating water shows clearly through plaster, tiles and screed, so we can mark the exact spot for repair.
Thermal imaging is one of three methods we use in a leak detection survey. Where the leak is underground or in a cold-water main, we combine it with acoustic and tracer gas methods.
What a thermal camera actually measures
A thermal camera reads temperature patterns on a visible surface. It does not see through tiles, plaster or concrete, and it does not show the pipe itself unless the pipe changes the surface temperature enough to register. Warm water escaping from heating pipework can sometimes leave a recognisable pattern, but the image needs interpretation alongside the system layout.
A cool area might be moisture-related, but it can also reflect insulation gaps, draughts, sunlight, heating cycles or different surface finishes. We look for a sensible comparison area and ask what has been running before treating a coloured patch as evidence of a leak. A single thermal image is not a definitive diagnosis.
Where thermal imaging can help
Underfloor heating and concealed heating runs can create useful temperature contrast while the system is operating. The camera may help map the route and identify an unusual patch for closer investigation. It can also support an assessment of damp where a wet area changes the way a surface heats or cools.
The result depends on the system being accessible for testing and on the surface above it. Thick finishes, insulation, recent heating or a small slow leak may mask the difference. For a cold mains pipe or an outdoor buried run, another method such as acoustic testing may be more useful. We choose the test for the question rather than use the camera everywhere.
How we check a suspicious pattern
We first identify the affected room, likely pipe routes and when the system loses pressure or produces moisture. Thermal images are compared with visible signs and, where appropriate, moisture readings or checks of the relevant plumbing circuit. This helps separate a normal warm pipe from an abnormal area associated with the complaint.
If the picture supports a likely location, we explain what it does and does not establish before recommending targeted access or another test. No non-destructive image proves what a concealed joint looks like. Opening a finished floor or wall is a separate decision based on the combined evidence and the repair scope.
Getting the property ready
Tell us whether the suspected leak relates to hot water, central heating or underfloor heating, and whether the system can be operated safely. Photos of the staining and the room layout help us plan where to inspect. Do not turn on a system that has been isolated for safety just to create a thermal image.
We can discuss whether the timing of the heating cycle, access to floor areas and furniture placement will affect the assessment. The survey may finish with a probable area, a different test recommendation or a finding that the available conditions do not support a reliable thermal conclusion. We explain that distinction before any repair is agreed.
Thermal imaging leak detection prices
Prices exclude VAT.
Domestic Leak Detection Survey
£650
Book
Frequently asked questions
Does thermal imaging work on cold water leaks?
It works best on heating leaks. For cold mains and underground pipes we use acoustic and tracer gas equipment.
Can a thermal camera see a pipe through a wall?
No. It records the visible surface temperature. A hidden pipe may influence that temperature, but the camera does not image through the wall.
Is this the best test for underfloor heating?
It can be useful when the heating creates enough contrast at the floor surface. The finish, operating conditions and suspected fault determine whether it is informative.
Will thermal imaging locate a cold-water leak?
Sometimes moisture changes a surface pattern, but cold-water leaks often produce little reliable contrast. Other inspection or testing may be needed.
Does the heating need to be on?
For mapping a heating circuit, suitable operating conditions can help. Tell us if the system is off or unsafe to run; we will assess whether another approach is appropriate.
Will a scan mean no floor needs lifting?
It may help reduce unnecessary opening-up, but confirming and repairing a concealed fault can still require access. We discuss the evidence and proposed access separately.
Areas we cover
Ready to book?
Send us the job details for a quote or call to discuss the next step.