As much as a water leak is a major inconvenience, they are extremely common and have the potential to cause extensive damage to your home if they’re not dealt with properly. According to the Association of British Insurers, approximately £1.8 million is paid out daily due to water damage.
Minimising the damage of a leak
However, the good news is that responding quickly to a leak can minimise the repercussions and the amount of restoration work you need. As a local business offering building repairs in Derby, we want homeowners and tenants to be aware that a leak isn’t always the huge gush we often associate with water damage and that the right steps can make a huge difference to the costs incurred.
Signs that you could have a water leak
Water leaks are sneaky because they can often present themselves as slow drips after a shower, a damp smell or mildew. They could be so subtle that you may not even be sure you have a water leak, but there are signs to look out for. If you notice a drop in water pressure or flow from your taps, it could indicate that you have a leak somewhere in your property. This is because if a pipe or water pump becomes blocked, the water pressure increases, causing the pipe to expand and then break.
A sudden increase in your water usage with no explanation is another sign to be aware of, as is a waterlogged area in your garden or noise coming from the pipework. In more severe cases, a surge of water or a heavy drip through the ceiling will be much more obvious and require swift action to keep damage to a minimum.
What should you do to reduce the water damage in your property?
Whether it’s a slow drip or a more obvious stream of water, the first thing to do when you notice a leak is to turn off the water supply. This can be done by locating the stopcock (usually found under the kitchen sink) and turning it anti-clockwise. Once this has been completed, it’s a good idea to drain the pipes by turning on the cold tap and leaving it on until the water stops running. Because DIY plumbing rarely produces good results, calling in the services of a professional is the quickest and most efficient way to solve the problem. A delay in contacting a qualified plumber could lead to more damage if the leak escalates and ultimately become more costly.
Having a water leak
If the restoration work you need looks extensive, it’s also worth considering the expertise of a business that can arrange the repairs and liaise with the insurance company on your behalf. Having a water leak can be stressful enough as it is without the added admin, so having someone who can arrange all aspects of the process can save you time and money and take the weight off your shoulders.
If you suspect a water leak in your home or property or would like to speak to us about organising repair work as part of your insurance claim, you can call ASK Building and Repairs at 07773 019 410 or email to info@askbuildingandrepairs.com.