Earlsheaton – Leaking from Kitchen Ceiling

Reason for Attendance/Discussion

A trace and access investigation was required to locate the source of an escape of water from within the property. Intermittent dripping from the kitchen ceiling was reported.

Works carried out/Conclusion

Upon arrival at the property a visual assessment of the ceiling confirmed an ongoing issue. A moisture mapping survey of the kitchen carried out using an MMS3 protimeter found the plasterboard ceiling to be saturated with excessive moisture levels observed on all surfaces surrounding the kitchen. Endoscopic inspection of the ceiling void was largely inconclusive as the property contains a suspended ceiling with the original lath and plaster ceiling mostly intact above. Access was created to the void to allow visual inspection. The pipework within the void was exposed adjacent to the upstairs shower. The escape of water was sourced to a failed 22mm plastic reducing fitting on the hot water supply to the upstairs bathroom. The fitting was discovered to have come loose likely due to thermal expansion. The fitting was adjusted then tested by an on-site plumber. The damage observed is consistent with the leak detected.

Recommendations

A professional drying program will be required alongside anti microbial treatment before any reinstatement works commence.