Planning the cost of a school leak investigation

Ask for a defined quotation

Ask which buildings and systems the survey covers, what access and shutdowns it needs, and what report will be supplied. Establish the price basis, VAT, exclusions and arrangements for further work. Do not assume that every school survey takes a fixed number of days.

Detection, access, repair, drying and reinstatement may be quoted separately or together. Check exactly what is included, who authorises changes and whether another contractor is required; a bundled price is not inherently unsuitable.

Estimate the cost of continued loss

Use measured consumption and an explained estimate of any leakage component. If extrapolating a rate, state the assumed duration and whether it is continuous. Apply the school’s water and relevant wastewater rates, allowing for tariff adjustments. Building damage and operational disruption are separate costs that a meter reading cannot establish.

Confirm the funding route

For England, DfE condition funding includes School Condition Allocations, the competitive Condition Improvement Fund and devolved formula capital. Routes and permitted spending depend on the institution, responsible body and financial year. DfE says SCA eligibility should not be assumed without confirmation.

Ask the school’s finance or estates lead whether proposed expenditure is eligible and whether approvals are needed before commitment. A survey report may support an application but does not guarantee an award. Schools elsewhere in the UK should use their own national and responsible-body arrangements.