5 MIN READ
What is escape of water?
Understanding One of the Most Common Insurance Claims
‘Escape of water’ refers to damage caused by plumbing or water issues. This could be a leaky tap, a burst pipe, or a washing machine that just won’t drain properly. No matter the cause, escaped water can lead to significant damage to your property.
How common of an issue is the escape of water?
Water damage cause by the escape of water is common issue for homeowners and landlords. In fact, PCLA reports that about one-third of home insurance claims in the UK are due to water damage, with burst pipes causing a whopping £153 million in damages each year.
As a landlord, your top priority is protecting your property, and water damage can be a significant threat. The issue of escaped water can ruin personal belongings, furniture, and interiors, and in severe cases, may even lead to structural issues.
If you’re concerned about potential damage to furniture, appliances, or other belongings in your property, it’s worth considering exploring your options for contents insurance.
Common causes of escaped water
Drops in temperature
When the temperature drops, your pipes can freeze and even burst. This is because when water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on your pipes. This can lead to cracks or splits, and once the ice melts, water can leak out through any openings.
Cutting corners
You’ve probably heard the saying, “buy cheap, you buy twice”. Although it can be tempting to go for cheaper options, paying a little more upfront for better quality can save you from future headaches and costly repairs.
DIY dangers
With so many YouTube and TikTok tutorials out there, you might feel inspired to take on plumbing jobs yourself. But remember, there’s a reason why plumbers and engineers are trained professionals - they have the skills and experience to get the job done right!
Faulty appliances
Appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, can wear out and develop issues over time, especially with regular use. That’s why it’s important to keep up with maintenance and pay attention to any signs of trouble.
Blocked pipes
Blocked pipes can lead to serious water damage, since trapped water has nowhere to go. This buildup can weaken seals, and as pressure builds up, debris can form and restrict water flow and pressure levels.
How to reduce the risk of escape of water
Avoid burst pipes
Start by keeping your home warm by setting your thermostat above 55 degrees during colder months to prevent your pipes from freezing. It’s also a good idea to regularly check your pipes so you can catch any issues before they become bigger problems. And don’t forget to insulate those vulnerable areas, as insulating pipes in colder spots can give you that extra peace of mind.
Ensure pipes don’t become blocked
To prevent blockages, it’s important to regularly check all pipes, including those hidden behind walls or under floorboards. Additionally, make it a habit to carry out frequent maintenance checks by examining drains, sinks, and toilets for any signs of slow drainage or unusual noises.
Proper appliance and boiler maintenance
Schedule regular servicing for your boiler and appliances to ensure everything is functioning as it should be. Consistent maintenance helps identify potential issues early on and minimises the risks of issues further down the line.
Communicate with tenants
As you’ll already know, good communication is a key aspect of being a landlord. And when it comes to preventing the escape of water, it’s no different. Keep an open line of communication so that your tenants feel comfortable reporting any signs of leaks or water-related issues as soon as they notice them. Encourage them to flag any unusual sounds, damp spots, or changes in water pressure to you.
Property inspections
Regular property inspections are a good way to keep on top of any growing issues that may later cause escaped water. Keep in mind however, that whether it’s to carry out a routine check or to assess an issue, there are guidelines you must follow when arranging an inspection with your tenants.
By taking these simple measures, you can help reduce the risk of escaped water and keep your property safe and sound!
What to do in the event your property is affected by escape of water?
Isolate the leak: turn off the water supply closest to the impacted area. As a landlord, knowing the location of your stopcock is vital for emergencies.
Inspect your pipes and appliances: look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or loose connections.
Check your water usage: if there are no visible signs, check for unexpected increases in your water bill, which may indicate internal plumbing issues.
Seek professional help: once you identify the source, contact a plumber or engineer for help based on the type and severity of the issue.
Document the damage: If safe to do so, take pictures and videos of the damaged areas for your records. These records will be useful if making a claim.
Notify your insurer: Get in touch with your insurance provider to report the incident and discuss your options going forward.
Are certain types of properties considered higher risk?
Yes, your property may be at higher risk if:
- You have multiple tenants, as tenant misuse of appliances or a failure to report issues may lead to the escape of water.
- You have an older property, as they often have plumbing systems that are more vulnerable to leaks, especially if they contain outdated materials.
- You leave your property vacant for extended period of time, as inactivity can cause small issues to go unnoticed.
What insurance options should landlords consider for escape of water incidents?
As a landlord, it’s essential to consider various types of insurance to protect against escape of water incidents. Key options include:
Buildings Insurance: Covers damage to the structure of your property from leaks, burst pipes, or flooding.
Contents Insurance: Protects furnishings and appliances in your property from water damage.
Liability Insurance: Safeguards you if a tenant or visitor is injured due to water-related hazards on your property.
Loss of Rent Insurance: Compensates for lost rental income if your property becomes uninhabitable due to water damage.
Legal Expenses Insurance: Helps cover legal costs associated with disputes arising from water-related issues.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can learn more about which aspects of Landlord Insurance cover is best suited your property here.
Protect the future of your property with AXA
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