When moisture begins creeping through a concrete slab, homeowners often fear the worst: burst pipes, drainage failures or hidden leaks. In this Rivett property, our plumber Weston Creek team carried out a full leak detection and burst pipes investigation during a bathroom renovation, delivering a clear diagnosis and professional guidance. And best of all, the experience earned us another glowing 5-star review.
“Very happy with the service I received. Tom was right on time, got his report to me quickly and the price was reasonable. Would recommend to friends without hesitation.”
Problem: Unexplained Water Damage in a Rivett Home
The customer contacted us after finding moisture beneath the concrete slab under two bedrooms. As documented in the job notes, dampness had progressed enough to cause mould growth in multiple areas across the bedroom floors.
Moisture appearing in slabs can be caused by plumbing leaks, damaged membranes, drainage failures, or rising groundwater. With the home mid-renovation, the bathroom already demolished back to the slab, the customer needed a clear answer fast. Without proper diagnosis, the risk of structural deterioration, prolonged mould exposure, and escalating renovation costs was high.
Because the situation involved potential health risks and the possibility of a concealed leak, a prompt and thorough assessment was critical. The customer chose Water Tight Canberra for exactly that reason: our reputation for accuracy, compliance, and upfront communication, the very qualities later highlighted in their 5-star review.
Assessment
Tom and Shannon attended the site to conduct a systematic leak detection and investigation. The visit started with a detailed inspection of the affected areas and the conditions around the slab. As captured in both the invoice and field notes, Tom performed a leak test on the exterior door frames and completed a full pressure test of the home’s water lines.
Using calibrated leak detection tools and methods consistent with our CCTV drain inspection service in Canberra, the team investigated:
- Exposed pipe penetrations in the bathroom renovation area
- Water supply line integrity
- Moisture paths around door frames
- Evidence of plumbing or drainage failure
- Abnormal dampness patterns through the slab
Every potential plumbing source was ruled out: no leaking pipework, no compromised fixtures, no moisture migration from internal plumbing. Despite the mould shown in the provided images, there was no evidence of water entering from any plumbing system.
With plumbing eliminated, the cause pointed to groundwater entering through slab cracks or external drainage conditions, requiring assessment by a specialist consultant. This conclusion, delivered promptly and clearly, matched precisely what the customer praised in their review: fast reporting, punctual attendance, and reasonable pricing.
What We Did
Our investigation followed a structured, best-practice approach that ensured no stone was left unturned:
1. Site Inspection & Preparation
- Documented mould-affected flooring and slab discolouration
- Confirmed safe access around the bathroom demolition area
- Checked visible pipework and penetrations
2. External Door Frame Leak Test
- Conducted controlled water testing at the external door frames
- Assessed whether wind-driven rain or poor sealing had allowed water to track inside
3. Water Supply Pressure Testing
- Pressurised the internal water lines to confirm system integrity
- Verified stable pressure throughout testing — ruling out supply line leaks
4. Moisture Mapping & Slab Assessment
- Used moisture meters to track patterns in the concrete slab
- Looked for moisture trails, cracks, and ingress points
- Observed conditions consistent with external groundwater pressure
5. Renovation Context Evaluation
- With the bathroom stripped to the slab, Tom assessed whether previous fixtures or waterproofing could have contributed
- No plumbing-related causes identified
6. Final Assessment & Recommendations
- Provided a clear, written same-day report
- Recommended engaging a building consultant specialising in groundwater and slab moisture solutions
- Explained next steps to the customer, minimising stress and uncertainty
This thorough approach ensured the homeowner received clarity, confidence, and the highest level of professional care, all reflected in their 5-star feedback.
Materials & Standards
Although no plumbing repair was required, our diagnostic work adhered to relevant AS/NZS plumbing standards, ensuring all testing was safe, accurate and compliant. Pressure testing was conducted using calibrated gauges, and moisture assessments were completed using industry-approved detection tools.
All work followed Water Tight Canberra’s internal quality protocols, the same standards we apply to emergency plumber Canberra callouts and complex leak investigations. Even when the issue lies outside plumbing, our role is to provide reliable answers backed by professional methodology.
Results
The homeowner was left with certainty and direction, often the most valuable outcome of an investigation.
Before:
- Mould is visible across the bedroom flooring
- Unknown moisture source
- Renovation risked delays and higher costs
After:
- Door frames tested — no water ingress detected
- Water lines pressure-tested — no leaks found
- Bathroom slab inspected — no plumbing faults present
- Clear determination that groundwater is the likely cause
- Same-day written report provided
- A confident, informed homeowner ready for the next steps
The customer’s 5-star review summed it up perfectly:
“Very happy with the service I received. Tom was right on time, got his report to me quickly and the price was reasonable. Would recommend to friends without hesitation.”
Tips
To prevent moisture issues and misdiagnosed leaks in the future:
- Check external door seals annually, especially before wet seasons.
- Ensure all slab penetrations are properly sealed during renovations.
- If mould appears suddenly, call a licensed leak detection specialist early.
- Maintain property drainage to reduce groundwater pressure against slabs.
Location Notes – Rivett ACT
Rivett homes, like many throughout Weston Creek, often sit on varied soil conditions that can increase groundwater movement. Ageing slabs and older site drainage designs can also contribute to moisture intrusion. Contact our plumber Weston Creek team today on (02) 6195 9991 for reliable plumbing, gas fitting, and drain cleaning Canberra services.
Gallery
Customer Review:
“Very happy with the service I received. Tom was right on time, got his report to me quickly and the price was reasonable. Would recommend to friends without hesitation.”
