Last updated on 12th December 2025 by Fitzgerald Surveying

Fitzgerald Surveying Services conducted a thermal imaging damp survey in a modern Buckinghamshire apartment to investigate the cause of an odour. Our non-invasive inspection successfully identified an active hidden leak, preventing further damage and costly repairs.

Overview

During a recent Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Buckinghamshire, our team was commissioned to carry out a thermal imaging damp survey following reports of an unexplained and unpleasant odour inside a modern apartment. The property showed no visual signs of mould or moisture, and standard inspection methods alone would not have revealed the underlying issue. As such, our specialist surveyor used thermal imaging to investigate further and reassure the client.

Thermal imaging is a powerful tool for detecting hidden moisture, heat loss and insulation defects. In this case, it was critical for uncovering an issue that would otherwise have remained unnoticed until more advanced damage occurred.

Our Response

Using a high-resolution thermal imaging camera, our qualified thermographer performed a targeted inspection of the affected areas, focusing on zones adjacent to the kitchen stack. The thermal scan revealed a cold anomaly behind the internal plasterboard, which was not visible to the naked eye. This anomaly exhibited a moisture pattern consistent with a hidden active leak. No visible staining or bubbling had yet developed, suggesting the issue was in the early stages of progression.

Method in Brief

Non-Invasive Thermal Survey: Used to investigate odour without visible damp indicators.

Cold Anomaly Detection: Clear heat signature showing localised cold patch behind plasterboard.

Moisture Mapping: Indicated moisture tracking consistent with active leak behaviour.

Early-Stage Identification: Issue caught before visual signs such as staining or bubbling appeared.

Outcome & Deliverables

The survey enabled early detection of the hidden leak, giving the client clarity on the cause of the issue and allowing prompt remedial action. Because the problem was identified at an early stage, the client avoided further deterioration, structural risk, or unnecessary investigative works.

Clear Diagnosis: Root cause of odour identified confidently with evidence-based reporting.

Cost Avoidance: Issue resolved before becoming a major structural or health concern.

Timely Intervention: Enabled quick repairs without guesswork or disruption.

Why It Matters

This case demonstrates the power of thermal imaging when used by qualified surveyors. Hidden damp and moisture cannot always be identified with visual inspection alone. Our expertise in thermographic surveys ensures early, accurate and non-invasive detection of building defects. With certified thermographers on our team, we interpret thermal patterns precisely, delivering actionable results for our clients.

We offer thermal imaging damp surveys for residential and commercial properties, helping identify leaks, hidden damp, and moisture-related concerns quickly and accurately.

Fitzgerald Surveying Services conduct thermal imaging surveys for leak detection, moisture tracking, insulation checks, underfloor heating performance, and more.

We serve clients across Buckinghamshire including Aylesbury, High Wycombe, Amersham, Beaconsfield, Chesham, Gerrards Cross, Marlow, Milton Keynes, and surrounding areas…