When a social housing provider reported signs of a hidden water leak at a residential property in Chichester, Metro Plumb Dorset and Portsmouth was instructed to investigate and identify the source. The issue appeared to be located somewhere within the property’s grounds, requiring specialist equipment and expertise to pinpoint the fault accurately. Working quickly to minimise disruption, our engineers carried out a complete leak investigation, excavation and repair, restoring the water supply and preventing further water loss.
The Challenge: Leak Detection near Portsmouth on Buried Water Infrastructure
The client suspected a water leak but had no clear indication of where it was coming from. As the pipework was buried underground, traditional inspection methods would have made it difficult to identify the exact location without extensive excavation.
The challenge was to locate the fault accurately while minimising disruption to the property. The repair also required careful excavation around existing underground services and water mains, ensuring the damaged section could be repaired safely and efficiently. A fast response was essential to prevent ongoing water loss and restore confidence in the property’s water infrastructure.
The Solution: Leak Detection near Portsmouth Combined with Civil Engineering Expertise
Our engineers attended the site and began the investigation using a specialist acoustic listening device designed to detect the sound of escaping water beneath the surface.
The survey identified a likely leak location within a sunken grassed area. Once the position had been confirmed, the civil engineering team carried out controlled excavation works to expose the underground pipework. Digging to a depth of approximately 1.2 metres, engineers uncovered three separate water mains and systematically traced the source of the leak.
After isolating the affected pipe, the team discovered a split measuring approximately three inches in length. The damaged section was removed and replaced with new pipework, creating a permanent repair and restoring the integrity of the water supply network.
Following the installation, the system was thoroughly tested to ensure there were no further defects. Water meter checks confirmed that water loss had stopped, while pressure levels within the property remained consistent. The pipework was then flushed to remove trapped air and ensure normal operation.
To complete the project, the excavation was carefully backfilled and the affected area reinstated. By combining specialist leak detection, professional civil engineering capabilities and experienced plumbers in Portsmouth, the team delivered a complete end-to-end solution during a single visit.
The Outcome: Leak Detection near Portsmouth Delivering Fast, Lasting Results
The leak was accurately located and repaired on the same day, preventing further water loss and avoiding the need for wider exploratory excavation works.
Project outcomes included:
- Successful identification of a hidden underground leak.
- Repair of a three-inch split within the water main.
- Elimination of ongoing water loss, confirmed through testing.
- Restoration of normal water pressure throughout the property.
- Completion of excavation and reinstatement works.
- No additional leaks found within the system.
- Minimal disruption to the resident and surrounding area.
The project demonstrates the value of combining advanced leak detection technology with specialist groundworks and underground pipe repair expertise. By delivering a complete solution in a single visit, Metro Plumb Dorst & Portsmouth helped the social housing provider minimise water loss, reduce disruption for the resident and restore the property’s water infrastructure quickly and efficiently.
Speak to a Specialist About Leak Detection and Civil Engineering in Portsmouth
If you’re dealing with unexplained water loss, rising water bills or reduced water pressure, our team can help. We provide expert leak detection services for residential and commercial properties, using advanced diagnostic equipment to locate hidden leaks quickly and accurately. As well as leak detection and water main repairs, our team can carry out the associated excavation, reinstatement and civil engineering works required to complete the job from start to finish. Get in touch with Metro Plumb Dorset and Portsmouth today to discuss your project and arrange a visit from one of our specialists.






























