You may be surprised to learn that the risk of substantial water leaks has gone up rather than down, in recent years. The Construction Risk Engineers Group (CIREG) say that claims for escape of water have risen significantly both in their severity and frequency since 2015. In fact, CIREG have stated that these losses of water are more common that fire related incidents. So why is this happening, and how can you avoid unwanted water leaks in your property?
From a lack of design awareness by professionals, through to operational failures by property owners, water risks are becoming one of the more common safety risks. Please consider the following:
Plumbing Workmanship
Poor workmanship is bad value at any price. Make sure to commission a plumbing team that are experienced and qualified. A lack of understanding of modern and complex plumbing systems is often the root cause for failures that occur later on. Check plumbing company reviews and reputation.
Design & Testing
Your plumber should operate good pipework testing regimes and use modern practices where appropriate, by implementing shut-off valves.
“Whilst the rise in escape of water claims is a worrying trend, it is unlikely to change without action on recognising the skills and competence of professionally registered individuals”, says CIPHE CEO Kevin Wellman. “As this report highlights, the risks with regards to safety and the cost implications when things go wrong, mean water management should absolutely be at the top of any project’s risk register”.
Attention to detail
Experienced plumbers know that ‘out of sight’ does not mean ‘out of mind’ with water leaks. Visual leak detection is simply not enough. Engineers should have a thorough approach to finding faults such as through the use of pressure testing.
Leave it to the professionals
Given that budgets are tight and times are tough, it is understandable that many people feel the need to fix leaks by themselves, but this often proves to be a false economy. Often, ‘patch up’ jobs are undertaken using the wrong equipment, without the proper seals, and can lead to a bigger problem down the road. In some cases, leaks can slow to a drop and be undetectable, creating untold damage over time.
The smartest way to save money when it comes to water leaks is to call on a professional, well-reviewed team such as Synergy Plumbing Services. We can suggest the most efficient solution to the problem at hand, saving you a packet in the log run. If you live in Loughborough, Shepshed, Hathern, Kegworth and surrounding areas in the East Midlands, please get in touch today.
