Ruskin Fitness
A hidden water leak led to over £10,000 in potential savings across other utilities
Project Summary
A routine enquiry about an unusually high water bill uncovered more than just a water leak. While investigating the cause of excessive water consumption, a broader review of the site’s utilities identified significant opportunities to reduce operating costs and improve long-term efficiency.
The Challenge
In February 2026, we were contacted by a client who received a water bill double their typical annual usage. They needed urgent support to understand why and whether a water audit could uncover the cause.
Initial Investigation
We started with the fundamentals:
- Had they been taking regular meter readings?
- Had they noticed any loss in pressure?
- Had any recent site works taken place that could have affected underground pipework?
During the conversation, the client mentioned they had recently built a Padel court, which raised the possibility of accidental damage during the groundwork.
Findings
Before our team could attend, the wholesaler visited the site and located the issue; a leaking valve connected to the swimming pool.
Unfortunately, the referral came slightly too late to recover the lost water, but the investigation confirmed the source of the excessive usage and prevented further losses.
Additional Opportunities Identified
While on site, we discussed the free Energy Audits that we offer, and how it would be a good idea to just check they weren’t paying more than they needed to for any utilities.
We requested all utility bills as it’s always better to review energy, water, and waste holistically to maximise any potential savings.
On investigation, we discovered that two energy contracts were out of contract, and it was unclear how long this had been the case. Despite challenging global market conditions, we were able to renegotiate and secure over £10,500 in savings for the client.
Next Steps: Improving Long‑Term Efficiency
It’s not just about utilities costing less, it’s about using less in the first place.
Alongside completing the water audit, we identified further opportunities to improve the site’s efficiency and reduce long‑term operating costs.
We have now:
- Conducted a site visit for a solar feasibility assessment
- Begun preparing a proposal for a solar installation
- Outlined a pathway to make the site more energy‑efficient and resilient
The Results
Even though the initial referral came too late to recover the water loss, we were able to renegotiate a new water contract. After liaising with the water supplier on the client’s behalf, were were collectively able to obtain an adjustment towards the cost of the lost water, of over £45,000, equating to over 20,000m³ of water credited.
In addition to this, the wider review delivered significant value:
- A further £10,000+ saved through re-negotiated energy contracts
- Clear identification of the water leak source
- A new opportunity for renewable energy integration and long‑term cost reduction, reducing reliance on the grid
- Strengthened client relationship through proactive, end‑to‑end support
This case shows how a single issue, even one that can’t be fully recovered, can open the door to wider efficiencies and meaningful savings when approached with a holistic mindset.
Watch this space for the solar outcome.
