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 then. 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

16th May 2025   |    Blogs