One of the most common claims we see is water damage to property, this can be caused by a variety of factors from changes in weather conditions or water pressure, general wear and tear, or poor workmanship.

Incidents can be anything from blocked toilets, sinks and drains, burst pipes, radiators, and air conditioning system leaks, leaking shower, baths, and taps to kitchen appliances such as washing machine and dishwashers.

Many modern buildings will have plumbing pipework concealed behind walls, so leaks my go unnoticed for some time.

So, what steps can be taken to minimise the risk of water damage?

  • Make sure that any work is carried out by competent, certified contractors.
  • Carry out periodic checks on pipe joints, seals and overflows on toilets, sinks, tanks and showers and other water outlets.
  • Deal with any small leaks before they turn into a bigger problem.
  • Cold weather can lead to frozen and burst pipes, so regularly check pipes that may be exposed to frost.
  • Consider installing a leak detection system, which will monitor use of water throughout the property.
  • Make sure everyone using the property is educated on what not to put down drains and toilets. Cooking fats, oils, baby wipes, nappies and sanitary products can all cause blockages.

Need to claim? Report it early

If you have an incident and need to make an insurance claim, it’s important that you report it as soon as possible, ideally the same day. Reporting a claim early can save time and help you to receive any claim payments faster.