According to Ecclesiastical claims data, escape of water is one of the largest causes of property insurance claims.
Water leaks that go unchecked can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage and properties can take months to dry out before repairs can be completed. You may, therefore, need to relocate to alternative premises in order to continue to operate.
As insurers, we have seen incidents where a small water leak has quickly escalated into a much larger loss. Whilst your insurance policy may provide cover should an insured loss occur, it cannot compensate for the inconvenience and disruption you may face.
Acting quickly when you discover a water leak can mean the difference between a small clean up job or extensive damage and inconvenience.
Did you know that the potential water loss from a burst pipe can be as much as 400 litres an hour – that’s about the same as four full bath tubs of water! So whenever you find or suspect a leak, take immediate action.
- Turn off your water supply at the main stopcock
- Turn off the electrics and heating
- Drain the water systems by turning on your taps
- If it’s safe to so do remove items at risk of damage to a dry area
- If water is seeping through ceilings and it is safe to do so, try to collect it in a suitable receptacle
- Again only if it is safe to do so, if a ceiling is bulging you can consider piercing it to release the water and prevent the ceiling collapsing.
- Never touch wet wiring or electrical items.
Remember that if electrical wiring or equipment gets wet to always consult an electrician before using again.