01
Identify the finish
Record the room, wall or floor, surface type, tile position and nearby reference point.
Hollow finishes guide
Hollow Tiles and Finishes: Evidence Before Repair
A hollow sound is a finding to locate and explain. It is not a remote diagnosis or an automatic prediction of failure.
Evidence-led guidanceTraceable next stepsClear professional limits
What this means
A hollow sound is a finding to locate and explain. It is not a remote diagnosis or an automatic prediction of failure.
A hollow-sounding finish is an acoustic response observed during an authorised check. Its usefulness depends on the tested location, method, pattern, surrounding condition and practical consequence for the homeowner.
Practical sequence
How to build a useful hollow-finish record
The record should let another person find the same area, understand the method and see why the item needs monitoring, discussion or repair.
02
Use a consistent method
Apply only an authorised non-damaging check with a consistent tool and reasonable comparison area.
03
Map the response
Distinguish an isolated point from a wider or repeated pattern instead of relying on one tap.
04
Look for supporting signs
Record visible cracking, lifting, movement, broken grout, edge condition or earlier repair where present.
05
State the limitation
The observation cannot see the concealed bedding, substrate or installation history without further investigation.
06
Choose the next step
Use the evidence for rectification discussion, suitable monitoring or assessment by the responsible trade or specialist.
How it works
From sound response to a controlled decision
Locate
Mark the exact finish and preserve an overview that another person can follow.
Compare
Use a consistent method across the relevant accessible area and record the pattern.
Contextualise
Add visible condition, use area, safety relevance and any earlier repair history.
Act responsibly
Discuss rectification or further assessment without claiming a concealed cause from sound alone.
What this helps you decide
Evidence worth keeping before repair
- Turn a vague sound into a traceable location
- Separate observation from concealed-cause diagnosis
- Preserve the baseline for repair discussion and verification
Evidence and boundaries
Evidence worth keeping before repair
- Room, surface and exact tile or finish location
- Overview image and a clear location reference
- The authorised method and comparison area
- Whether the response is isolated, grouped or widespread
- Visible cracks, movement, grout or edge conditions
- Repair response and before-and-after record
Common questions
Use the guide with the right context
See a property-matched price first. Contact details are requested only after you choose an option.
Get Instant QuoteDoes every hollow-sounding tile need replacement?
Not automatically. The location, pattern, visible condition, use, applicable criteria and responsible party's assessment affect the repair decision.
Can tapping confirm poor workmanship?
It can identify an acoustic response for further consideration. It does not reveal every concealed installation detail or cause.
Can DPM check whether repaired tiles improved?
A later verification may compare the agreed locations with the usable baseline, subject to scope, access and the repair being ready.
Should the area be marked before repair?
Yes, when permitted. A clear location map and photographs make repair discussion and later comparison more reliable.
Start with your property
See the inspection options and price matched to your home.
No phone number is needed to view the available price.
Get My Instant Quote