Acoustic leak detection

Acoustic leak detection uses sensitive listening equipment and ground microphones to detect the sound generated by water escaping under pressure from a buried supply pipe. The technique is most commonly used on mains supplies and central heating pipework rather than gravity drainage, although it complements drain CCTV and tracer work when investigating combined causes of damp or wet patches. Engineers sweep the suspected area systematically, identifying the loudest signal and triangulating the leak source for targeted excavation. In London, where many properties have lead, copper and MDPE supplies routed under hard landscaping, acoustic detection helps avoid extensive disruption. The method is carried out by qualified engineers using calibrated equipment, and results inform the choice between localised repair, partial replacement or full mains renewal in accordance with BS 6700 and BS 8000-15.