Precise Leak Detection and Repair Using Ground Microphone Technology

A picture of a customers driveway after leak detection and repair. It shows the stone driveway restored to it's previous condition, with darker stones around the area of repair due to increase water and soil presence.A picture of an exposed leaking undergroud water pipe which was detected by one of Metro Plumb's expert leak detection specialists.

Client: Residential Property Owner

Location: Bristol, United Kingdom

Service: Leak Detection & Repair

Method Used: Ground Microphone

Challenge

The homeowner noticed signs of a possible underground water leak in their garden area. There were damp patches near the property and an unexplained increase in water usage. Due to the property’s landscaping and the proximity to the house, a non-invasive yet accurate detection method was required.

Solution

Metro Plumb dispatched a certified leak detection specialist to assess the situation. Using a ground microphone, the engineer was able to pinpoint the exact location of the leak without unnecessary digging or disturbance to the surrounding area.

This acoustic detection method is highly effective for identifying leaks in pressurised systems beneath concrete, gravel, or soil — ideal for this setting.

Execution – Step-by-Step Highlights:

  • Preparation: Once arriving on-site, the engineer spoke with the customer to understand the background to the problem and explain the leak detection process to them. He then set out preparing the area, ensuring safety measures and barriers were in place before beginning any work.
  • Initial Scanning: The engineer scanned the area with a ground mic and pipe locator, narrowing the leak to a specific section near the front of the property. During this stage, a cat and genny were also used to locate any cables and ensure the engineer could conduct a safe dig.
  • Precision Digging: A small trench was carefully dug following the mic’s reading.
  • Leak Exposure: The faulty section of pipe was found – visibly leaking and surrounded by saturated soil.
  • Repair: The engineer fitted a new water supply pipe with WRAS (Water Regulations Approval Scheme) approved fittings onto the pipe to stop the leak.
  • Restoration: After testing the repair and confirming no further leaks, the area was carefully backfilled and restored to its original condition.

 

Outcome

✔ Leak detected and repaired within the same day

✔ Minimal disruption to property

✔ Accurate diagnosis avoided unnecessary excavation

✔ Customer was informed at every step

Need Assistance With a Suspected Leak?

Metro Plumb has expert leak detection specialists available across the country to help pinpoint, excavate and repair your leak, saving your property from damage and saving you money on your water bill too. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you!

Discover how Metro Plumb used advanced ground microphone leak detection technology to accurately locate and repair a hidden underground water leak at a residential property in Bristol. By combining acoustic leak detection, pipe locating equipment, and precision excavation techniques, our specialist engineers identified the source of the leak with minimal disruption to the homeowner’s property. This same-day leak detection and repair project highlights the benefits of non-invasive water leak detection, reducing unnecessary excavation, preventing further property damage, and helping homeowners avoid costly water bills.

16th May 2025    |    Case Study