Heliot Europe and LeakSafe Partner to Bring IoT Water Leak Detection to UK Homes and Commercial Properties

Heliot Europe, a UK and European Sigfox operator and independent IoT network provider, has partnered with LeakSafe, a specialist in water leak detection systems, to enable IoT-based water leak detection, prevention and management through LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices. These devices are now connected to Heliot’s Sigfox 0G™ network, providing a reliable data connectivity solution for residential and commercial property owners, facilities managers, and insurers to monitor and prevent water leaks and costly water damage.

Industry-leading water management and connectivity

LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch device and WaterComm notification system track real-time water usage and flow monitoring to identify potential leaks at the earliest stages before they become a major problem. Traditionally, water leak management has been resource intensive, often requiring manual inspections, resulting in costly delays when identifying issues. In contrast, LeakSafe’s IoT enabled system – powered by Heliot’s low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) connectivity – continuously tracks water flows and flags unusual patterns. If a leak is detected, the WaterSwitch’s motorised valve automatically shuts off the water supply, providing an additional layer of protection, significantly reducing the risk of water damage and also alerting the property owner appropriately as needed.

Heliot’s LPWAN connectivity plays a crucial role in enabling the seamless real-time monitoring and control required. Unlike standard connectivity solutions like cellular and Wi-Fi, which can be limited by building infrastructure, Heliot’s Sigfox network provides consistent coverage across diverse building types and locations, ensuring LeakSafe’s devices can operate efficiently and transmit data without interruption. This connectivity also ensures that alerts and control instructions – such as the demand to shut off water – are relayed immediately. This empowers property owners and managers to respond proactively, saving time, and reducing costs associated with water damage and repairs.

A proactive, cost-effective and sustainable approach to leak prevention

Andy Welch, Business Development Manager, LeakSafe says, “Our collaboration with Heliot Europe enables property owners, facilities managers, and insurers to take control of water management in a way that was not previously possible. We developed our IoT-enabled WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices to be compact, easy to install and scalable – alongside this, they are both robust and cost-effective, as the data costs for the system are low.”

“Partnering with Heliot has allowed us to offer a reliable, affordable connectivity-based solution that operates in challenging environments, such as hard to reach locations and even underground. Our devices are designed for long term use in the field too, and need minimal battery replacements. This makes them an ideal choice for a range of building types and locations. Moreover, they safeguard properties and promote sustainable practices.”

“For instance, the problem of water wastage in the UK is enormous for consumers and businesses. Over 1 trillion litres of water were  lost to leaks in the UK last year alone, and insurers today currently pay out an estimated £1.8 million per day for water-related claims. In the face of these challenges, we’re delighted to bring this innovative solution to market alongside Heliot. It will become integral to many water damage prevention strategies across the UK in the future.”

Gareth Mitchell, UK Partner Manager, Heliot Europe, said: “This partnership with LeakSafe marks a significant step forward in how water leak detection and management can be achieved in residential and commercial properties across the UK. By connecting LeakSafe’s WaterSwitch and WaterComm devices to our Sigfox network, we are delivering a robust, low maintenance, IoT-enabled solution that tackles water damage prevention with unmatched reliability and coverage.”

As the exclusive Sigfox 0G™ network operator across multiple European countries, including the UK, Heliot Europe provides a robust, energy-efficient network ideal for IoT deployments in critical sectors. The Sigfox network’s low-frequency radio technology offers a cost-effective, secure, and reliable alternative to existing cellular and Wi-Fi networks, enabling LeakSafe devices to connect without accessing client networks or security systems. The solution thus ensures efficient installation, seamless operation, and long-lasting device battery life, supporting a wide range of applications in water leak detection and beyond.