Leak investigation is one of our favourite inspections because it involves problem solving and requires professional forensic skills to determine exactly where a leak is originating. It goes beyond visual inspection and the application of thermal imaging. By combining moisture mapping, acoustic detection and targeted moisture meter readings, we can track the water path and pinpoint the source without unnecessary guesswork.
With many years of experience, Altez can provide clear advice and recommendations without resorting to invasive assessment from the outset. When an inexperienced consultant is engaged, you may be advised to remove large areas of plasterboard, roof sheeting, sarking, carpet or flooring boards—only to find no water damage in the exposed areas. Those unnecessary works add substantial cost and disruption.
By contrast, our team has been trained to apply a structured forensic methodology from day one. We use logical deduction, calibrated instruments and, where needed, minimally invasive techniques such as borescope inspection or moisture probe testing to confirm our findings. That approach minimises the scope of any invasive works, thereby reducing both time and expense while still delivering a comprehensive and reliable leak investigation report.
If you suspect a leak at the property, indicated by water stains on the ceiling lining, a musty smell or mould growth, it is always recommended to engage a professional inspector for leak investigation. Altez inspectors are experts in leak investigation and have assisted many customers in preparing professional inspection reports and locating the source of leaks. Our experience and professional skills are relied upon by many professionals, including builders, repairers, insurance companies and tribunals.
We are experienced in assessing water damage and its effects to ascertain the age of water activity based on the damage. For example, a simple water stain may indicate a minor but recurring drip, while mould growth on the ceiling may indicate extended water retention in the lining due to a continual leak. When the ceiling lining is clearly sagging, it may indicate that the leak has been occurring for months.
Our assessment is not only visual but also uses professional thermal imaging and moisture reading equipment to narrow down the search area without removing ceiling plasterboards. Experienced inspectors like us also apply a water spray test to simulate the leak and localise the water entry path, making it easier and simpler for the client to repair.
Yes. If the leak was caused by an external accidental factor and is a one-time event, it is usually covered by home insurance. Typically, insurers will appoint their own assessors to inspect the damage and provide a rectification plan or payout. If you disagree with the insurer’s investigation outcome, you can engage an independent assessor to review the findings and prepare a separate report.
For example, in one of our case studies a client experienced a blocked sewer drain that caused severe overflow from the toilet. The overflow flooded the bathroom and into the adjacent bedroom, causing water damage to the tiles and floor boards. At the same time faecal matter also collected beneath the tiles.
We assisted our client with their insurance claim by accurately estimating the rectification costs and identifying the areas affected by the leak. Our report was professionally written, accepted by the insurer and resulted in a payout matching our estimate.
