Water Leak Investigation: Managed Residential Property

We were recently called to a managed property, where the goal is to provide support that allows residents to maintain and enhance their independence within the community. Our involvement in the project stemmed from a strong working relationship with a Heating company, who appointed us to assist with a complex internal water issue affecting the property

Challenge:

The property was experiencing ongoing internal water damage, primarily in the main entrance and extending through the corridors and around the lift shaft. Initial suspicion fell on the underfloor heating pipework as the source of the leak. Previous contractors had already attempted to diagnose the issue using thermal imaging but were unable to locate the leak. Upon our arrival, and with minimal notice, we were also tasked with checking the incoming 2" cold water mains, which required immediate intervention to isolate the supply from the rest of the building.

Solution:

Our approach combined several diagnostic techniques to thoroughly investigate the issue. First, we installed a lever valve on the 2" mains pipe to isolate the water supply for effective pressure testing. A plumbing condition survey of the boiler room revealed a continuous escape of water caused by a failed discharge valve on one of the three hot water cylinders.

We used thermal imaging to detect anomalies on the internal wall separating the boiler room from the damaged corridors, and moisture profiling confirmed the pattern and extent of water migration.

To track the precise movement of the leak, we introduced fluorescent dye behind the hot water cylinder. Testing showed the dye being drawn toward and through the internal wall, confirming it as the pathway for water damage.

With client approval, we carefully excavated a section of the floor inside the corridor backing onto the boiler room. This confirmed that water was leaking from the boiler room through the wall into the adjacent corridor space.

Additional pressure testing eliminated the underfloor heating and incoming cold water mains as sources of the leak, narrowing the cause to the failed valve.

Outcome:

The source of the water damage was definitively identified as a failed discharge valve in the boiler room. Our thorough investigation allowed for an accurate diagnosis, enabling targeted repairs and a focused restoration plan.

By confirming that the underfloor heating and cold water mains were intact, we prevented unnecessary
work and redirected the claim to ensure that resources were used effectively. The client was able to proceed with repairs confidently, knowing that the root cause of the issue had been fully resolved.