How do you trace a hidden leak behind a ceiling or wall?

ADI uses moisture measurements, thermal imaging and other suitable tests to trace a concealed leak from the visible damage back towards its source. Share when the marks first appeared, whether they change and which rooms or services are above them.

Where to check for hidden pipe leaks in a care home

The engineer chooses which areas to check, such as walls, floors, ceilings below bathrooms and service routes, based on the building and the pattern of moisture.

  • Hot and cold water pipes in walls and floors
  • Pipework above corridors and bedrooms
  • Leaks affecting ceilings below bathrooms
  • Concealed service routes between rooms

Keeping residents safe during a ceiling leak investigation

Keep people away from visibly damaged ceilings, follow your home’s incident procedure and give ADI the site’s building information before any opening-up work. Agree room access, equipment routes and protection of occupied areas.

Service information: ADI’s commercial leak detection service. Content reviewed September 2026. Confirm the scope and site arrangements directly with ADI.