A method of assessing the condition of a pipeline 2 to predict possible fluid leakage from the pipeline comprises selecting at least a portion 4 of the pipeline, assessing the portion to identify any defects and measuring their depth, width and length, and thereby assessing the likelihood of fluid leakage from the portion with reference to fluid pressure within the pipeline. Identification and measurement of defects may be by measuring magnetic flux leakage using a triaxial sensor array. Defects may be assessed as through-wall or close to through-wall and a minimum fluid pressure to cause a leak predicted. Fluid pressure may be assessed on the basis of elevation of the pipeline, lower portions 6 being most likely to exceed a critical pressure 8. Soil properties around the pipeline and the condition of any coating may be considered. The method advantageously predicts risk of leakage without the need to investigate the entire length of the pipeline.
