About Trace
Experts in defect analysis, leak detection, environmental monitoring & building acoustics.
- UKAS Accredited
Knowledge, Equipment, Solutions
The science behind the diagnosis
Trace Surveys specialise in compliance testing, leak detection and defect diagnoses in buildings. Our knowledge of buildings, their environments, materials and services, coupled with the latest diagnostic equipment allows us to efficiently identify problems. We have a scientific and methodical approach which gives our clients an understanding of what the problem is so that we can advise on the right remedial solution before any works begin. We essentially remove the guesswork and give an unbiased opinion for repair strategies. The services that we provide are largely non-destructive so we can operate with minimal disruption. This approach ensures that surveyors, builders, insurers and property managers repeatedly use our services whenever the cause of a problem is not immediately clear.
Diagnosis before cure
Trace Surveys was founded in 2010 by Tim Sanders, whose career in construction management — built on a BSc in Building Engineering awarded in 1999 — gave him a grounded understanding of how buildings are put together and, crucially, how they fail. Recognising a gap in the market for specialist leak detection in 2007, Tim established a small company working in that field, developing the forensic, evidence-led approach that would become the foundation of everything Trace does.
From those origins, Trace Surveys grew into a broader building diagnostics practice, focused on investigating defects from the inside out. The company's name reflects its roots in the insurance clause "Trace & Access" — the process of locating and exposing a source of damage — a principle that still runs through the business today: diagnosis before cure.
Over the following years, Trace built a reputation for technical excellence and impartial diagnosis, expanding its services to encompass acoustic consultancy, building compliance testing, and rope access. That growth has always been driven by the same underlying commitment — to apply scientific method, remove assumption, and give clients the clarity they need to make the right decisions. Where others might default to the quickest answer, Trace invests in getting to the right one.
Values
Diagnostic Integrity
We remove the guesswork. Our findings are evidence-based, impartial, and never shaped by the remedial work that follows.
Evidence-Led Diagnosis
We apply scientific and methodical testing to reach the right answer — not the quickest one. Our non-destructive approach means we solve problems without creating new ones, keeping disruption to buildings and occupants to a minimum.
Measured Expertise
We help clients understand and resolve the impact of noise and vibration on buildings and their occupants. From architectural acoustics to environmental noise monitoring, our assessments are independent, measurement-based, and designed to inform the right solution — not justify a predetermined one.
Demonstrated Performance
We provide construction-phase and post-completion testing that gives clients confidence their buildings perform as designed. Whether for air tightness, membrane integrity, façade water tightness, or sound insulation, our testing is rigorous, accurately documented, and traceable — so compliance is demonstrated, not assumed.
Accredited & certified
Trusted by Professionals
“We have used Trace Surveys to investigate issues at one of the buildings I manage in Epsom. Dean and Luke have been extremely helpful throughout, demonstrating a high level of expertise and professionalism. They took the time to explain their findings clearly and provided a thorough and efficient service. I would not hesitate to recommend Trace Surveys and look forward to working with them again in the future.”
“We were at the end of out tether with a continuous and long running leak issue on a flat roof extension, including a series of 'fixes' that may have made things worse. Trace Surveys and our inspector Luke took a scientific approach to the problem and identified clearly several key issues and had the technology to see the impact of the test. The report was clear on what needed to be done and easy to pass on to the right tradespeople to inform a better conversation on how to fix the issue. Luke Winconek was excellent, from his skill, manner and aftercare on how this issue is being resolved. I would recommend Trace Surveys and Luke in particular if you get to the point of needing to identify a complex issue and properly get to the root cause.”
“I honestly can’t recommend Trace Surveys highly enough. From the first enquiry through to completion, the entire process was handled professionally, efficiently, and with real attention to detail. Communication was clear throughout, no chasing, no confusion, just straightforward, honest advice and delivery exactly as promised. The quality of insoection is excellent. Everything was completed to a very high standard, on time, and with obvious a full detailed report. The team were punctual, respectful, and left everything clean and tidy, which makes a huge difference. They found a leak that others have looked for for years previous. What really stood out was their knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile. Any questions were answered thoroughly, and nothing felt like too much trouble. We now only use trace!”
“Luke Winconec from Trace surveys visited today. He is a very nice chap and provided an outstanding service. We have had a serious leak in a membrane roof for some time and the cause has not been at all obvious. After we had done some repair work and not solving the problem, I decided to see if Trace could work their magic. Luke used thermal imaging, water testing and electrical testing to precisely locate several issues including pinhole pricks in the membrane that we had not seen. He did a short video for my builder which my builder already has and we now know what needs to be done. I could not be more delighted with this service.”
“Trace Surveys consistently demonstrated professionalism, accuracy, and reliability. Deliverables were completed on schedule, communication was excellent, and the quality of the survey data provided is great. A trusted company that I would happily recommend.”
““Please with the work and the speed it was carried out.””
““Exceptional Workers.””
““Very grateful for efficient service.””
““Very Pleased with the job.””
““Very decent & hard working team.””
““Very Conscientious and helpful.””
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