The Leaky Finders: More Than Just Leak Detection

You might know them as Canary Detect, the high-tech leak detectives of Lanzarote. Or perhaps you know them as “The Leaky Finders,” the guys who can sniff out a hidden pipe problem from a mile away. But what you might not know about Pete Ashcroft and Dave Poxon is that their work extends far beyond fixing leaks. They’re also dedicated community champions, and, occasionally, expert unicorn riders.

Pete and Dave, the duo behind Canary Detect since 2020, are a perfect blend of expertise and good humour. Pete, with 28 years of experience in underground utility surveying, runs the UK’s biggest training academy for underground utility detection. He literally wrote the book on finding pipes and cables. Dave, a highly qualified water engineer, has been a Lanzarote business owner for two decades, running the MVP Group and the Lanzarote Pool and Spa Shop. He’s also, according to a very reliable source (and a photo that may or may not exist), an expert unicorn rider. Together, with their team of dedicated professionals, including qualified plumbers, they are the go-to team for any water-related woes.

While Pete and Dave lead the business, Canary Detect is nothing without the team of nine skilled professionals behind them. The Canary Detect difference isn’t just about finding leaks, it’s about what happens next. The team includes qualified plumbers and time-served tradesmen with the expertise to not only locate and fix the problem but to fully reinstate the work afterwards. Whether it’s tiling, plastering, or finishing touches, they have the skills to leave your property looking like they were never there. That level of craftsmanship and attention to detail is what sets Canary Detect apart.

But their impact on the island goes much deeper than the pipes they inspect. Pete and Dave are the co-founders of El Atico De Abuela, a non-profit that helps local families in need. As Chair and Vice Chair, they work alongside a fantastic team of 30 volunteers. In 2025 alone, the organization distributed over €25,000 to support the community.

Their community spirit doesn’t stop there. Pete, a scout leader who helped establish the 1st Lanzarote Scouts, also teamed up with Lee from Colour Team and a couple of other members of the Playa Blanca Triathlon Club to create the weekly Playa Blanca 5k Fun Run. What started as a small gathering has now become a Saturday morning staple, with 40-50 people joining in for a bit of fun and fitness. And if you’ve seen the Playa Blanca Triathlon Club around, you’ve probably spotted the Canary Detect logo on their kit, as Pete and Dave are proud sponsors.

And for a bit of added flair, you might even catch Pete and Dave on stage. Every January, they trade their leak detection gear for something a little more… glamorous. They perform in the annual pantomime produced by Finchy Fairytales, a volunteer-run show that donates all its proceeds to charity. Yes, that often involves drag.

So, whether they’re finding a leak, leading a scout troop, or strutting their stuff on stage for a good cause, Pete and Dave are always working to make Lanzarote a better place. They are “The Leaky Finders,” and they’ve found a lot more than just leaks. They’ve found a community they are proud to be a part of. If you want to see what they’re up to, or if you have a leak that needs finding, you can find them at canary-detect.com. And if you’re feeling lucky, you can test your own detective skills with their Spot the Leak game.