Condo Bathroom Waterproofing Leak Detection — BC Specialists
Find shower, bath and wet-area waterproofing failures before they cause structural damage
About This Service
Bathroom waterproofing failures are the most common source of between-unit water damage in BC strata buildings. A failed shower pan, cracked tile grout, deteriorated tub surround or failed p-trap allows water to seep into the floor-ceiling assembly and migrate laterally before appearing in the unit below. We use thermal imaging, moisture mapping and controlled water testing to identify the exact source without immediately opening walls or floors.
Common Causes
Warning Signs
- Water stain or efflorescence on the ceiling or walls of the unit directly below
- Soft, spongy or hollow floor tile in the shower area
- Visible mould behind or at the base of the tub or shower surround
- Musty or sewer smell in the bathroom without visible standing water
- Peeling paint or swollen drywall at the wall below a bathtub alcove
- Damage appearing in the unit below during or after shower use
Detection Process
- 1
We inspect the wet areas in the source unit — checking tile, grout, caulking and drain connections.
- 2
Thermal imaging from the unit below during controlled water use maps the moisture path.
- 3
Moisture meter readings in the affected unit confirm extent of saturation.
- 4
A flood test (water filled in the shower pan) confirms whether the pan or drain is the source.
- 5
We provide findings with photos and recommend the repair sequence to stop damage progression.
What You Receive
- Thermal imagery showing moisture path from source unit to affected unit
- Flood test or controlled fixture test results
- Moisture extent mapped to floor-ceiling assembly
- Identified source: shower pan, grout failure, tub surround, drain
- Written report suitable for strata, insurer and remediation contractor
Strata Responsibility Note
Shower and bathroom waterproofing in individual units is typically the owner's responsibility in BC strata buildings. However, if a construction defect in original waterproofing can be demonstrated, liability may rest with the developer or strata corporation. A documented inspection report establishing the source is essential in any dispute.
Bathroom Leaks — BC Locations
Condo and strata leak detection available across British Columbia.
Condo Leak Detection by BC City
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Frequently asked questions
Can you find a shower leak without removing the tile?
In most cases, yes. Thermal imaging and a flood test locate the failure mode without demolition. We remove finishes only when the evidence already clearly identifies the area and the repair requires it.
How do I know if the damage in my unit is from my own shower or from the unit above?
We test each unit's fixtures systematically. By running only the upstairs shower while monitoring below with thermal imaging, we can confirm or rule out the unit above as the source within a single visit.
Is mould testing part of the inspection?
We assess the extent of moisture and document visible mould. We do not perform mould air sampling. If mould assessment is required for remediation planning, we recommend a separate IEP (Indoor Environmental Professional).
Bathroom Leaks — Objective Detection, Documented Report
LeakInspections.ca is a division of Anyleak.ca and part of the Leak.ca family — BC's specialist leak detection network since 1999.