Stop using the shower or bath if water is reaching ceilings, walls or electrical fittings
Isolate local water supplies where possible. Electric showers must be isolated electrically before any internal work, and temperature faults that create scalding risk should be treated as urgent.
MOST LIKELY CAUSES
Start with these
Symptom variations Match the exact pressure, temperature or leak pattern. ⌄
- Leak only when shower walls get wet
- Leak only while tray drains
- Leak worsens when standing in tray
- Sealant is cracked or blackened
- Water appears outside one corner
Quick checks Simple checks before dismantling shower or bath components. ⌄
- Identify whether the problem affects pressure, temperature, drainage or leakage.
- Check nearby hot and cold outlets for similar symptoms.
- Clean accessible shower heads, filters and waste covers.
- Inspect hoses, seals, trays and accessible joints.
- Stop testing immediately if water appears below or near electrics.
Step 1 — Dry and inspect the perimeter Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄
Process
Check all tray-to-wall and enclosure seals.
Step 2 — Test drainage without spraying walls Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄
Process
Pour a controlled amount directly into the waste.
Step 3 — Check for tray movement Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄
Process
Apply gentle body weight and observe the edges.
Common causes explained Why shower and bath faults develop. ⌄
A leaking shower tray may have failed perimeter sealant, a loose or damaged waste, tray movement, cracks, poor support or a supply leak nearby.
Shower and bath faults often depend on when water is flowing, draining or hitting a sealed surface. Controlled separate tests help distinguish supply, mixer, waste and enclosure faults.
Advanced diagnostics Plumber or appliance-engineer checks. ⌄
- Inspect and replace trap or waste seals.
- Remove and renew failed sealant correctly.
- Repair tray support and movement.
- Inspect enclosure profiles and door seals.
- Replace cracked tray where necessary.
Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
- Sanitary sealant
- Shower trap
- Waste seal
- Tray support materials
- Enclosure seals
- Replacement tray
When to call a plumber or engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄
- Water is leaking through a ceiling or near electrical equipment.
- The shower temperature is dangerously hot or unstable.
- An electric shower has an internal heating or power fault.
- The tray, bath or concealed pipework must be removed for access.
- A thermostatic cartridge cannot be calibrated safely.
- The fault returns after basic cleaning or seal replacement.
Frequently asked questions Common questions about shower and bath faults. ⌄
Why does a shower drip after it is turned off?
Large heads and hoses can hold water temporarily. Continuous fresh dripping points to a leaking control valve or cartridge.
Can failed sealant cause a ceiling leak?
Yes, but waste joints, pipe connections and tray movement must also be ruled out.
Why does shower temperature change when another tap is used?
The hot and cold pressures may be unbalanced or the thermostatic cartridge may not compensate correctly.