Escape of water claims
Escape of water and leak claims
Burst pipes, leaking appliances and water ingress can cause far more damage than you can see. We make sure your claim covers all of it, and deal with your insurer for you.
- Free assessmentNo obligation, no upfront cost
- No win, no feeWe don't get paid until you do
- Your own loss assessorFrom first call to final settlement
The damage you can't see matters most
Escape of water is one of the most common types of home insurance claim. A burst pipe, a failed washing machine hose or a leaking tank can soak floors, ceilings and walls before anyone notices.
Water travels under floors and behind walls, and the damage isn't always visible straight away. If it isn't found and dried properly, it can lead to damp, mould and repeat repairs later on.
Our loss assessors make sure the full extent of the damage is identified and included in your claim, that the property is properly dried before repairs start, and that you're treated fairly by your insurer.
How we help with your escape of water claim
We make sure hidden damage under floors and behind walls is found and included.
Many policies cover the cost of finding the leak and putting right the damage caused to reach it.
Repairs only start once moisture readings confirm the building is dry.
Somewhere to stay if your home can't be lived in, where your policy covers it.
We deal with your insurer and its loss adjuster on your behalf.
We appoint and supervise contractors through to completion.
Need help right now? What to do after a flood or leak: our step-by-step checklist.
Common causes of escape of water
These are the situations we help with most often. Whether a particular cause is covered depends on your policy, so it's worth asking us to check.
- Burst or frozen pipesOften sudden and serious, especially in cold weather or in empty properties.
- Leaking appliancesWashing machines, dishwashers, fridges and their hoses and connections.
- Tanks and heating systemsLeaking cold water tanks, cylinders, radiators and boilers.
- Bathrooms and showersLeaks from baths, showers and toilets. Some policies treat gradual leaks differently from sudden ones.
- Water ingressWater getting into the building and causing damage to the structure and contents.
- Damage to flats belowLeaks that affect neighbouring properties, which can involve more than one insurer.
Common questions
What does trace and access mean?
Trace and access is cover for the cost of finding the source of a leak and then repairing the damage caused while getting to it, such as lifting floors or opening walls. Many home insurance policies include it, sometimes with a limit. We check your policy and make sure it's claimed.
Is a leaking shower covered?
It depends on your policy. Many policies treat sudden escapes of water differently from damage caused gradually over time, such as a slow leak from worn seals. The wording matters, so it's worth asking us to review it before you accept a decision.
Why is my excess higher for escape of water?
Many insurers set a higher excess for escape of water claims than for other claims. Your policy schedule shows the amount. We make sure it's applied correctly to your claim.
What should I do first?
Turn off the water at the stopcock, switch off electrics in affected areas if it's safe to do so, and photograph the damage. Then tell your insurer and contact us as early as you can.
Other ways we can help
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Talk to an experienced loss assessor about your claim. No win, no fee.
Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.