A second hidden leak found after the first repair area was opened
A constant meter flow led to two faults beneath the kitchen screed. Thermal, moisture, acoustic and tracer gas checks guided access; step testing then revealed a second leak further along the pipe.
Signs of the leak in Kingston upon Hull
The meter showed constant use of one litre every twenty seconds when the hot supply was on. Closing the cold feed to the combi boiler stopped the flow. The heating had also stopped working.
How the hidden leak was located
Thermal imaging and moisture readings highlighted the area beneath the sink. Acoustic listening and tracer gas supported that location before the flooring, screed and sink-unit base were opened. After a leaking compression elbow was exposed, step testing showed another fault and the pipe route was followed to a pinhole leak.
Why this area was opened
Heat, moisture, gas and sound findings supported opening below the sink. Once the first elbow was exposed, further testing justified following the pipe towards the second defect.
The investigation, step by step
- 01Confirmed constant meter movement on the hot supply.
- 02Removed kitchen kickboards and surveyed heat and moisture patterns.
- 03Checked leak noise and tracer gas at the pipe entry into the concrete.
- 04Opened the affected floor and sink-unit base to reach a leaking compression elbow.
- 05Step tested and followed the pipe to a second pinhole leak.
- 06Replaced both failed sections and confirmed no loss through pressure testing and a meter check.
What was found
- Found
- A leaking compression elbow beneath the kitchen units and a separate pinhole on unprotected copper pipe further along the same hot water run.
- Repair
- Both failed sections were removed and replaced with flexible push-fit pipe and fittings. A pressure test found no further issue and the meter stopped recording usage.
- Recommended afterwards
- Complete a drying programme before making good. Leave access beneath the unit and consider a removable floor hatch so the fittings remain accessible.
- Worth knowing
- Drying and reinstatement are recommendations, not recorded completed work. The source describes no obvious damage on arrival but later records warped flooring; avoid claiming the flooring was undamaged throughout.
What this investigation shows
A first visible fault can leave another leak unresolved. The recorded outcome includes retesting and a stopped meter, while drying and future access remained recommendations.
Read about agreeing access and repair work and understanding the recorded outcome.
