2023 represents a significant milestone for leak detection system specialists Diamond Controls as the business celebrates its 20th anniversary. The brand has developed into a key player in its specialist field and works on some of the most prominent construction and development projects in London and the South East.

We’ve taken a look at the history of the company and how it has grown into one of the UKs leading specialist providers of Leak Detection Systems and Trace Heating products.

Company history

Founded in 2003, Managing Director Iain Ames identified a clear need for reliable, efficient automated Leak Detection Systems – a way to confidently detect and localise leaks across a building to prevent damage and disruption.

Following detailed research and testing of potential supply partners, the foundations of the Diamond Controls products and services we know today were established. This includes authorised supplier partnerships for Aquilar and nVent RAYCHEM and installing highly regarded systems from manufacturers such as Aquitron and TraceTek. Bolstering the team with skilled engineers and head office staff has been fundamental to the success of the business and the team has continuously grown as the company developed.

Its acquisition of a specialist trace heating provider, Astec Ltd in 2013, also opened up new opportunities for the business and an extended range of products. The business is now an authorised distributor of nVent RAYCHEM heat trace products and launched its own ecommerce supply only service under the brand Trace Heating Supplies last year.

These energy efficient electric heat trace products appeal to both industrial and commercial premises and Diamond Controls has the expertise to supply, commission, service and offer installation training to third parties such as insulation contractors.

The team now consists of more than 20 personnel, each a specialist in their field. This includes field-based installation and service and maintenance engineers, as well as professional HQ based specialists in areas such as estimation, project management, finance, logistics, design, business development and operations.

What does the future look like for Diamond Controls?

Leak Detection Systems can be found in almost all large commercial buildings but there’s still a lack of awareness of their benefits and the need for regular maintenance to ensure they’re operating correctly.

Diamond Controls wants to lead the way in changing that perception, so property and facilities managers recognise the importance of regular servicing, just as they do with fire alarm systems and other maintenance tasks. There are also important premises insurance considerations, plus the environmental benefits of water saving products like Leak Detection Systems that can prevent unnecessary water wastage.

Additionally, Trace Heating has significant energy efficiency advantages that have so far been underused in areas such as heating systems, frost protection and temperature maintenance. Diamond Controls aims to use its position in the industry to reinforce these benefits across a wide cross section of commercial properties.

Iain concludes, “We have a broad spectrum of clients that range from new building installations to refurbishments, modifications and renewal of systems. We’re privileged to have worked with many of our clients over a number of years and they range from Mechanical and Electrical contractors, Facilities Management companies, Construction project managers and the end user. This diversity ensures we’re fully able to adapt to changes in best practice and support the requirements of each organisation.

Developments such as wireless alarm panels and BREEAM accredited major leak detection automatic shut off systems have helped to widen the scope of what’s possible within our field and we’re determined to keep pace with what’s needed by our clients. With this in mind, we’re continually investing in the skills and resources needed to keep ahead and are confident of a very strong future.”

Diamond Controls has many leading accreditations include two ISO awards, Safe Contractor, Gold Constructionline and SMAS.

The company is also a member of the NICEIC and ECA. View more about Leak Detection Systems and its trace heating supply webshop traceheatingsupplies.com.