Leak Detection Gets Smarter: Nexa and TDG Unite for a New Era

Nexa and The Detection Group merge to simplify leak detection, boosting efficiency and resilience in Australia's smart water sector.

1 Jul 2025

Two subsidiaries of Watts Water Technologies, Nexa and The Detection Group, have merged to create a single platform for intelligent leak detection, in a move aimed at improving water resilience in Australia’s built environment.

Announced in late June, the merger brings together Nexa’s cloud-based analytics and The Detection Group’s wireless sensor systems. The combined platform is designed to detect leaks more quickly and accurately across commercial and industrial buildings, while reducing the need for multiple vendors.

The consolidation reflects a growing demand for integrated solutions in Australia’s water infrastructure, as building owners face mounting pressure to cut waste, limit damage, and meet tightening environmental regulations.

“We’re making smart water tech easier to access and use,” a spokesperson for the combined entity said, adding that the system is designed to help building operators act before minor issues escalate.

Insurance companies are increasingly recognising the benefits of proactive leak detection. Some now offer incentives for buildings that deploy such systems, citing reduced claims and lower operational risk.

While some observers have raised concerns that technology consolidation may narrow competition in the sector, others argue that integrated solutions offer operational efficiencies that outweigh potential drawbacks. Combining real-time analytics with automated alerts enables property managers to respond more effectively and reduce downtime.

The merged platform is also intended to simplify installation and maintenance for facilities teams. As large-scale buildings become more reliant on connected infrastructure, demand is expected to grow for systems that deliver actionable insights without adding complexity.

Both Nexa and The Detection Group have operated under Watts Water Technologies, a global provider of plumbing, heating, and water quality products. Their integration marks a strategic shift in how the company delivers water management technology.

The move aligns with broader trends in building automation and sustainability, particularly in water-scarce regions like Australia. Industry analysts expect further consolidation in the sector as companies seek to offer end-to-end solutions in smart infrastructure.

For now, the merged platform will focus on commercial and multi-residential buildings, though expansion into additional markets has not been ruled out.