The problem of partial unknown input (UI) reconstruction is addressed. It is considered that a linear functional of the UI vector has to be reconstructed using output information only. Necessary and sufficient conditions are given allowing for the reconstruction in finite time of the required UI's; analogous conditions are obtained for the asymptotic reconstruction of the required UI's. The solution of the problem under consideration provides a means to solve the problem of fault detection and isolation for disturbed linear systems. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.