Water Damage Costs Flat Owners Dear

Recent research, conducted by Cadogan Keelan Westall, the UK’s leading property insurance specialists, has revealed that a quarter of claims made on flats are for damage caused by escape of water. An estimated 9.7 billion litres of water a year is lost through residential properties and it is costing £2 million every day*. (*Source: ABI, August 2011).

The research also found that the average water damage claim in 2011 was £2,907.54. The most common causes of water damage to flats are from domestic appliances (sinks, pipes washing machines, baths, showers and toilets,) roof leaks, frozen pipes and blocked drains.

A recent case of water damage brings to life the high cost and disruption it causes tenants and landlords. Contractors were investigating leaks in the ground and first floors. Having eradicated the cause, the contractors discovered an additional problem. A leak was located from the soil and vent pipe which was encased in ducting within a ground floor flat, causing damage to plasterwork behind tiles, decorations and flooring.

The excavation work revealed the full extent of the damage and in order to restrict the inconvenience to the leaseholder and alternative accommodation expenditure, an early inspection and authority to commence work was provided.

Steve Packer, Client Director at Cadogan Keelan Westall comments: “Water damage is both costly and disruptive to landlords and tenants and it continues to account for the largest number of claims in flats.

“However, the good news is that we are seeing a slight decline in claims and this may be due to better awareness of preventative measures to limit water damage. We have been working closely with Waterguard Services, who offers an innovative solution for Residential and Commercial properties designed to prevent water damage, by automatically shutting off the water supply in the event of a burst or major leak. Waterguard delivers practical solutions for water leak detection and water management ensuring customers can protect property, conserve water and save money.

“I would urge all property owners to consider preventative measures for water damage so they are adequately protected. It will save time, money and disruption in the long term.”