Leak Detection Sevenaoaks | 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 provides professional, commercial water ingress investigation services in Sevenoaks, one of Kent’s most prosperous districts. Our technical expertise addresses the waterproofing challenges facing commercial property owners in this area, from the town’s established business centre and retail developments to office parks and distribution facilities serving the M25 corridor.

We understand the importance of protecting your commercial assets from water damage and disruption, while maintaining operational continuity with complete reassurance. Whether addressing current leak problems at your Sevenoaks premises, establishing strategic maintenance programmes, or requiring detailed documentation for property assessments and transactions, our experienced team delivers precise, dependable services. Our range of services includes thorough building leak investigations that identify sources accurately, comprehensive waterproof integrity testing using advanced-grade methods and equipment, and detailed roof condition surveys helping you make informed decisions and establish proactive strategic plans with confidence.

How We Work

  • Planning

    We begin each project by thoroughly examining the building’s characteristics, waterproofing specifications, and any underlying, historical concerns. We select the most appropriate testing method(s) for your specific circumstances and develop an efficient survey strategy that minimises disruption.

  • Testing

    Our qualified leak detection technicians use industry-leading equipment calibrated for commercial applications. Employing techniques including low voltage testing and pinhole detection for conductive substrates with a membrane system, we methodically survey waterproofed areas to identify defects accurately.

  • Evidence

    Each detected breach receives precise documentation through exact location mapping, comprehensive digital photography, and detailed measurements. Our evidence provides contractors with crystal-clear information, reducing the risk of misinterpretation and ensuring repairs will fix confirmed issues.

  • Recommendations

    We provide clear, actionable advice prioritised by urgency and potential impact. Our recommendations consider short-term, critical remedial needs alongside longer-term maintenance advice, helping you plan effectively and protect your building investment.

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

Coverage

Based in neighbouring Edenbridge, our specialist team provides comprehensive leak detection services in Sevenoaks and the surrounding North West Kent region.

Sevenoaks: TN13, TN14, TN15, TN16
Surrounding Areas: TN8, TN11, DA2, DA3, DA4, BR6, BR8

Key Areas: Sevenoaks Town Centre, Riverhead, Dunton Green, Otford, Kemsing, Seal, Ide Hill, Sundridge, Brasted, Westerham, Oxted, Edenbridge, Swanley, West Kingsdown, Eynsford, Shoreham, Knockholt, Halstead, Chevening, Borough Green

What You Receive

  • Report

    A detailed technical document presenting our methodology, findings, and professional analysis. Designed for clarity, our reports communicate the most essential, pressing information to both technical teams and senior leadership and decision-makers.

  • Annotated Plans

    Accurate scaled drawings with every leak location clearly marked and referenced. These plans enable roofing contractors to prepare precise quotations and execute repairs efficiently without unnecessary exploratory work.

  • Priorities

    A practical ranking system that prioritises the most critical defects requiring immediate intervention as well as lower-risk ingress issues that can be addressed at a later date, likely with planned preventative maintenance. This structured approach supports effective risk assessment and budget planning.

  • Programme Guidance

    Strategic advice on repair work and timescales, along with recommended inspection schedules. We help you develop maintenance approaches that prevent emergency repairs and maximise your roof's serviceable life.

FAQs

What's the typical cost of commercial leak detection testing?

Costs vary considerably depending on several factors including roof size, complexity, access requirements, and the type of testing methodology most appropriate for your building. A small commercial unit might require just a few hours of testing, whilst a large distribution centre or multi-level retail development could need several days of comprehensive surveying. We provide detailed quotations following an initial consultation where we understand your specific requirements and building characteristics.

Can testing identify the age or remaining life of our roof?

Electronic leak detection specifically identifies breaches in waterproofing membranes rather than assessing overall roof age or remaining serviceable life. However, the pattern and extent of defects we discover can provide useful indicators about general condition. A roof with numerous widespread breaches might suggest advanced deterioration, whilst isolated defects could indicate specific installation issues or localised damage. For comprehensive assessment of remaining roof life, we recommend combining leak detection with a visual roof condition survey.

What happens if you can't locate the source of our leak?

Whilst electronic leak detection is highly effective, occasionally water ingress stems from sources other than membrane breaches, such as failed flashings, defective gutters, condensation issues, or building fabric problems that aren’t immediately detectable through waterproofing integrity testing. If our standard testing doesn’t identify clear membrane breaches, we’ll discuss alternative investigation approaches. We’ll always be honest about our findings and recommend appropriate next steps rather than claiming certainty where none exists. We work collaboratively with you to identify the most effective diagnostic approach for your specific situation.

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 …

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.

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