Leak Detection Ashford | Building Leak Investigations

Established in 1986

Pioneers of electronic leak detection in the UK

Over 35,000 successful tests

Excellent Client Reviews

Professional Roof Assessment & Leak Detection Service

Thornton Consulting delivers specialist water ingress investigation services to commercial property managers and building owners throughout Ashford, one of Kent’s fastest-growing towns. Our technical expertise addresses the waterproofing challenges facing buildings in this diverse region, from established town centre retail units to modern business parks and the expanding developments around Ashford International.

We understand that water ingress can significantly disrupt your business and affect property value. Whether addressing existing leak problems at your Ashford premises, establishing proactive maintenance programmes, or requiring detailed reports for property transactions and compliance, our qualified team provides accurate, reliable assessments tailored to your needs. Our services include waterproof integrity testing using advanced electronic methods, comprehensive roof condition surveys for strategic planning, and systematic building leak investigations that identify sources efficiently, allowing you to schedule repairs well in advance.

How We Work

  • Planning

    We begin each investigation with a transparent and thorough consultation, reviewing your building's construction details, waterproofing systems, and any known issues. This preparation enables us to select the most effective testing approach and develop a strategy that works perfectly for you.

  • Testing

    Our technicians deploy electronic detection equipment specifically suited to commercial or large residential applications. Whether using low voltage methods, pinhole detection, or differential pressure techniques, we systematically survey all waterproofed areas to achieve thorough coverage and accurate defect identification.

  • Evidence

    Every finding receives meticulous documentation through precise location coordinates, detailed photography, and technical measurements. This rigorous evidence collection gives contractors exact target areas, streamlining the repair specification process and eliminating unnecessary exploratory works.

  • Recommendations

    We translate our technical findings into practical guidance, ranking defects by severity and potential impact. Our recommendations balance immediate and long-term repair needs with your maintenance strategies, supporting effective resource allocation and risk management.

Client Testimonials

I’ve worked with Thornton’s team for nigh on 10 years and I’m yet to be disappointed by any aspect of their business or interaction with any of their staff. I feel that the collaborative approach we have when working together not only benefits our site in a speedy response and solution, but it also strengthens our relationship with our onsite client team, building in faith that together we can self-solve most, if not all issues. Working with Wendy and the onsite teams is nothing short of a pleasure. I would highly recommend using Thornton Consulting Group for all investigative services when it comes to finding leak issues.

OCS Group (Bluewater)

Your team have successfully found the cause of the water ingress. I also wanted to write to express how impressed we are with the professionalism of both Sam and Dave and there health and safety whilst on site. I will be recommending Thornton Consulting going forward to the Hospital and will certainly use this service in the future with Carillion. Many thanks, and also for attending at such short notice.

Carillion Plc

We have worked with Thornton’s for several years now and we could not be happier with the service. The team are really helpful, accommodating and always happy to help us out if we are under pressure from a client. The team are always happy to take a call to discuss a project with them to get a clear understanding of the issues found on site. Thorntons always find the issues and provide a very thorough report to outline them with recommendations on repairs required.

Foxleys Fabrick & Building Maintenance

Thank you for your assistance with the DLI. The contractors used were fantastic and I would definitely recommend using them in the future.

Smart Property Development

Thornton Consulting are extremely professional, reliable and carry out a fantastic service with excellent communication throughout – we would recommend using them and we certainly will be using them again.

Rendall & Rittner

Just wanted to take a moment to commend your team for the works carried out on site. We are really pleased with the results.

TS, M

Thanks for the work carried out and the subsequent report. Sam and Dave were 1st class.

Complete Building Services Ltd

What You Receive

  • Report

    An in-depth technical report detailing our methodology, all findings, and expert analysis. Structured for clarity, our reports serve both technical audiences requiring detailed data and senior stakeholders needing to understand top-level data.

  • Annotated Plans

    Scaled drawings with every identified defect precisely marked and cross-referenced. These detailed plans enable contractors to prepare accurate quotations and execute targeted repairs without speculative investigation.

  • Priorities

    A clear ranking system distinguishing critical defects requiring immediate action from less urgent issues suitable for scheduled maintenance programmes. This supports effective risk assessments and budget planning.

  • Programme Guidance

    Forward-looking recommendations covering repair sequencing, realistic timescales, and optimal inspection frequencies. We help you establish proactive maintenance strategies that prevent emergency situations and deliver long-term value.

Coverage

Based in Kent, our specialist team provides comprehensive leak detection services throughout Ashford and the surrounding Mid and East Kent region.

Ashford: TN23, TN24, TN25, TN26, TN27
Surrounding Areas: TN28, TN29, TN30, ME13, CT4

Key Areas: Ashford Town Centre, Ashford International, Kennington, Willesborough, Great Chart, Kingsnorth, Park Farm, Singleton, Bridgefield, Sevington, Beaver Green, Wye, Charing, Challock, Chilham, Tenterden, Hamstreet, Brabourne, Sellindge

Latest Blog & Case Studies

To find out more about what we do and how we work, read our case studies and blogs below.

What is Waterproofing Integrity Testing?

Integrity testing of newly installed waterproofing membranes has become common place for new build projects, in particular large commercial constructions or apartment blocks, although it …

FAQs

What are the signs that our commercial building needs leak detection testing?

Obvious indicators include visible water stains on ceilings, damp patches on walls, or standing water on upper floors during or after rainfall. However, many water ingress problems show more subtle signs initially: musty odours, unexplained increases in humidity levels, minor ceiling discolouration, or paint bubbling. You might notice degradation of interior finishes without obvious cause, or receive reports from occupants about dripping sounds within walls or ceilings.

For flat roofs, external signs include ponding water that doesn’t drain within 48 hours, visible membrane deterioration, or vegetation growth. If you observe any of these indicators, professional leak detection can identify problems before they escalate into major damage requiring extensive repairs.

How do you prevent disruption to our business operations?

Our goal is to conduct thorough investigations whilst ensuring your operations continue smoothly. Most electronic leak detection work occurs entirely on the roof exterior, requiring no internal access during testing itself unless we need to verify existing water damage. Our equipment is relatively compact and doesn’t generate significant noise that would disturb office environments or retail spaces. When planning your project, we discuss your operational constraints upfront and develop a testing schedule that protects your business continuity.

Is leak detection testing a requirement for commercial property compliance?

Whilst there’s no universal legal requirement mandating regular leak detection testing, it’s highly recommended for complete peace of mind. Several requirements make it effectively necessary for compliance and due diligence; for example, many building insurance policies increasingly require documented maintenance programmes including regular roof inspections. When selling or acquiring commercial property, buyers and their surveyors often require recent roof condition reports. Some lease agreements specify maintenance standards that necessitate regular professional assessment. Regular testing demonstrates responsible property management and helps avoid potential liability issues arising from overlooked or neglected maintenance.

Get in Touch Today

Call us on 01342 410508, email us at mail@thorntonconsulting.co.uk or send us a message using the form below. A friendly member of our team will be in touch shortly.

"*" indicates required fields

Our Accreditations