Emergency Leak Detection in London – What to Do Before the Professionals Arrive

Discovering a water leak in your home can be stressful, especially if it’s causing damage right in front of your eyes. 

And even in a well-serviced, well-connected city like London, it can still sometimes be difficult to get quick access to help. 

While you wait for the experts to arrive, there are a few important steps you can take to minimise damage and protect your property. The most crucial thing to remember is – stay calm, and act fast. 

1. Shut Off the Water Supply

The first thing you should do is locate and turn off the main water supply. In most properties, you’ll find the stopcock under the kitchen sink or near the front door. 

However, in some more unusual London properties, you may have to hunt to find it (this is why it should be a priority to find the mains water stopcock as soon as you move in). 

Cutting the flow stops water from spreading further, and hopefully minimises any damage. 

2. Turn Off The Electricity in Affected Areas

If the leak is near electrical outlets, light switches, plug sockets or appliances, turn off the electricity at the fuse box immediately. This is to avoid any risk of electric shock. Never attempt to handle wet wiring – leave that to the professionals.

3. Contain the Leak As Best You Can

Use towels, buckets, containers or whatever else you have to hand to try to collect dripping water. This can prevent further damage to floors and furnishings, and if nothing else – makes you feel like you’re taking useful action until help arrives.

4. Take Note of Any Damage

Take photos and videos of any visible water damage. This won’t help you with the present emergency, but it could be invaluable evidence if you need to make an insurance claim later. 

5. Call the Experts

Don’t wait for things to worsen, act now. Get in touch with an emergency plumber if the leak is obvious and serious, or London leak detection specialists for hidden water issues – as these can soon escalate into major problems. 

This kind of expert will use advanced techniques such as thermal imaging and acoustic testing to quickly locate the source of the leak. This means they can track it down and fix it without making holes in walls or causing any other damage.