Comparison guide · 4-min read
Leak detection vs insurance adjuster. Who actually finds the leak?
When a leak triggers an insurance claim, two different specialists come into play — but they do completely different things. The adjuster doesn't find leaks; the detection company doesn't process claims. Confusing the roles slows down claims and weakens recovery.
TL;DR
The adjuster assesses your claim — what's covered, what's not, what the payout is. They do not locate leaks. The detection company locates the leak and provides documentation the adjuster uses to assess the claim. Both are typically needed; they work in different directions and don't substitute for each other.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Leak Detection Company Locates the leak source | Insurance Adjuster Assesses the claim |
|---|---|---|
Locates the leak source | ||
Assesses what your policy covers | ||
Determines claim payout amount | ||
Produces written detection report | Reviews ours | |
Hires you (or paid by you) | Paid by the insurer | |
Coordinates restoration vendors | ||
Negotiates damage scope with you | ||
Pinpoints leak within inches | ||
Identifies subrogation opportunities | We provide evidence | Pursues recovery |
Visits the site | Sometimes — desk adjusters are common |
Yes Partial / depends No
When to choose which
Choose Call leak detection first when…
- Active leak with damage — find source immediately
- Need a written report before filing the claim
- Adjuster requests source documentation
- Strata inter-unit dispute — need source unit ID
- Insurance company suggests you 'get a report'
- Before authorising repair scope or restoration
Choose Adjuster engages on the claim when…
- After you've filed the claim with your insurer
- Reviews your detection report + restoration estimates
- Determines coverage based on policy and source of loss
- Negotiates with you on scope and payout
- Authorises the deductible and approves vendors
- Closes the claim when restoration is complete
Choose Both work together when…
- Detection finds and documents the leak
- Adjuster reviews the detection report on first review
- Restoration company quotes scope based on detection
- Plumber repairs based on detection location
- Adjuster authorises payouts to all vendors
- Claim closes with detection report in the file
Quick answers
Frequently asked
Does the insurance company send out a leak detection company?
Sometimes — the adjuster may recommend a panel of trusted vendors. You're typically free to choose your own (and you should — many adjusters prefer independent reports over panel-vendor reports for transparency). Confirm with your adjuster either way.
Who pays for the leak detection?
You pay up front (typically $250–$900) and submit the cost as part of your claim. Most BC home and commercial policies reimburse detection costs when there's active water damage. Our reports are formatted to support reimbursement.
Does the adjuster require a detection report?
Often yes — especially for complex or large claims. The report establishes the source of loss, the damage extent, and the recommended scope of repair, which the adjuster uses to assess coverage.
Can the adjuster deny my claim?
Yes — if the loss falls outside policy coverage (e.g. wear-and-tear, undisclosed leaks, gradual seepage in some policies). A well-documented detection report can be the difference between approval and denial — it establishes the loss as sudden and discrete.
What's the difference between an adjuster and an appraiser?
An adjuster works for the insurance company and assesses the claim. An appraiser is typically a separate party (sometimes independent, sometimes hired by you) who valuates damage. Some BC firms cover both functions.
Should I hire a public adjuster?
For very large or contested claims, sometimes yes — a public adjuster represents you (not the insurer) and negotiates on your behalf for a percentage of the recovery. For most residential leak claims, a strong detection report and direct engagement with the insurer's adjuster is sufficient.
What if the adjuster's payout doesn't cover the actual cost?
Negotiate with the detection report and restoration estimates in hand. If gap is significant, consider an independent appraisal or a public adjuster. For strata claims, subrogation against an at-fault party is often the next step — our reports are designed for that.
Related guides & comparisons
Compare: Leak Detection vs Plumber
Compare: Leak Detection vs Restoration
Strata Inter-Unit Leak Guide
How leak detection works
Insurance claim support services
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