Protecting your property from escape of water damage

Water damage is one of the most common reasons for costly domestic property damage. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), £1.8m in home insurance claims are paid out each day.¹

From burst water main, faulty plumbing, and pipe joints to overflowing water tanks, water escaping can escalate quickly, often before it is immediately visible. Understanding the common causes, using preventative technology such as leak detectors, and ensuring you have the right home insurance policy in place are essential steps in protecting your home and personal belongings.

What is escape of water and why does it matter?

‘Escape of water’ means water leaking or water escaping from pipes, tanks, or appliances. Even a small, slow leak can cause further damage over time, such as damp patches, ruined flooring, damaged walls, and mould growth. The resulting damage can be far reaching and expensive to repair.

For landlords and commercial property owners, the impact can include business interruption, unhappy tenants, and escape of water claims that cause insurance company premiums to rise.

Properties most at risk

Some homes are more vulnerable to water damage for various reasons:

• Older buildings with ageing pipework that may corrode or crack.
• Properties left unoccupied for long periods, such as holiday homes or rental properties between tenants, or offices outside working hours.
• Homes with complex plumbing systems, central heating systems, underfloor heating, or multiple bathrooms.
• Properties with miscellaneous leaks or hidden faults in pipe joints.

Leaks in these properties can go unnoticed for days or weeks, increasing the risk of further damage.

Tips to reduce the risk of escape of water

To protect your home and reduce the risk of an escape of water incident, regular home maintenance and simple precautions are key. Here are some tips:

1. Know where your main water supply and stopcock are, and check them regularly.
2. Inspect pipe joints, appliances, and connections for leaks.
3. Use appliances like dishwashers and washing machines only when someone is home.
4. Keep drains clear and check sealants, taps, toilets, and shower trays.
5. Turn off the water supply when the property is unoccupied.
6. Use the water meter to detect hidden leaks.
7. Ensure new plumbing and central heating systems are professionally installed.

Taking these steps can prevent minor issues from becoming costly problems.

Be prepared for weather risks

Heavy rain, freezing temperatures, and overflowing rivers increase the risk of water damage and burst pipes. Winter preparation is vital:

• Lag exposed pipes and water tanks.
• Fix dripping taps.
• Use heating regularly during cold spells, especially in empty homes.
• Allow warm air to circulate in loft spaces to prevent freezing.

If pipes do freeze or burst, take immediate action:

• Turn off the main water supply immediately.
• Safely thaw frozen pipes.
• Drain the system.
• Contact your insurance company and a qualified professional.

Acting quickly can limit resulting damage and reduce repair costs.

The role of leak detectors

Leak detection devices help by monitoring water use and shutting off supply if a leak is found. This technology can be an effective tool for minimising and preventing severe water damage. Using these devices can reduce the risk of escape of water claims and protect your home.

Acoustic sensors

These listen for the sound of water escaping, making them especially effective for locating underground leaks.

Thermal imaging cameras

Specialised cameras that detect temperature differences caused by moisture. They can help to identify hidden leaks behind walls or ceilings without invasive work.

Automated leak detection software

This software continuously monitors water flow and uses data analysis to identify unusual patterns and trigger alerts.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning

This can help improve detection accuracy over time by analysing real-time and historical data.

Pipe inspection tools

These can be used to assess pipe condition to prevent leaks before they occur.

Why insurance matters

Even with prevention, no system is foolproof. This is where insurance plays a vital role. Buildings and contents insurance policies typically cover escape of water, but the level of protection can vary.

• Some policies exclude damage from gradual leaks or require proof of home maintenance.
• Check your policy documents carefully for insurance terms related to escape of water claims.
• Understand what your insurance company will cover, including temporary repairs and compensation for personal belongings.
• A loss assessor can help manage claims and ensure insurers pay fairly.

Knowing your policy details helps you act quickly and reduce cost and further damage.

Sources

1. abi.org.uk/burst-pipes-and-water-leaks