10 Common Causes of a Water Leak In The Home
Whether you’re a new homeowner, landlord, tenant- or you’re simply responsible for a building, it’s important to understand the causes of water leaks to be able to prevent them. But, with so many different aspects of a home at risk of causing of a water leak, it can be difficult to keep track of them.
Figures from the Association of British Insurers show that escape of water damage is the most common of domestic property damage claims, with £1.8million being paid out by insurers daily. Having knowledge on how leaks commonly occur will help you understand how to mitigate the risks and reduce the chance of it happening to you.
Certain concerns within a property are often found to be the cause, whilst other factors can worsen a leak that is already at large. The team at Rainbow has shared their expertise to enable you to quickly and accurately identify the cause of a leak, helping you to mitigate the damage caused:
- Common causes of water damage
- Who is responsible for water leaks?
- How to find water leaks in your home?
Common Causes of Water Damage
1. Excess Water Pressure
Your home’s pipes and overall plumbing system rely upon even and steady water pressure, or else you risk straining your pipes. They’re equipped to take a certain level of water pressure, so any uneven amounts that exceed the level they’re designed to support can lead to leaks and burst pipes.
2. Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can be much more than just an inconvenience, as a drain that isn’t allowing water or liquid to flow through it properly can quickly overflow. If they don’t overflow, the pressure can build, causing the pipe to burst.
3. Broken Seals
Seals can be found across all water connectors, or in any appliances that have a water connection. However, over time these seals can wear down and begin to break. This can lead to puddles and condensation forming around the appliances, so ensuring your seals are in working order is essential.
4. Loose Water Connectors
The water connectors themselves can be an issue you may have to contend with too. If they become loose or the connection is disrupted due to the movement of the appliance when in use, a leak can occur.
5. Intruding Tree Roots
It’s not just the inside of a property that should be monitored for potential water leak causes. The trees outside of your home can also cause problems, as the roots can grow to damage the water lines underground. This can then lead to water leaks under your garden or yard, creating sinkholes, muddy areas and even low water pressure.
6. Corroded or Cracked Pipes
Pipes can easily corrode or crack over time, causing slow leaks that can be difficult to spot. Older plumbing systems are more susceptible to this, so regular maintenance is crucial to avoiding a leak developing. Discolouration or warped pipes is the first sign, so keep an eye out for these warning signs.
7. Damaged Pipe Joints
Pipe joints can easily deteriorate and are often the weakest parts of a plumbing system, so can easily become a common cause of water leaks in the home. Ticking and banging noises are common indicators that there may be too much pressure within the system and you may be running the risk of a water leak.
8. Rapid Temperature Changes
As the seasons change, your pipes and plumbing systems can be strained, as the pipes expand and contract as the temperature changes. Freezing temperatures are especially concerning, and cracks can begin to develop, leading to water leaks.
To prepare your pipes for harsh weather, read our blog on How to check for frozen pipes this winter.
9. Radiator Leaks
Corrosion can be common with radiators, leading to them needing to be replaced. High pressure, faulty valves or loose connections can also lead to a radiator leak. Ensuring regular maintenance is completed is the best way to avoid the problem from getting worse and needing a full replacement.
10. Broken Waste Pipes
Not only is a broken waste pipe a cause for a leak, but it’s also dangerous. They can break for many reasons, including faulty joints, temperature changes and a lack of maintenance. Look out for mould or mildew, slow drains, pests and foul smells to spot a broken waste pipe, and hire a professional as soon as possible if you suspect this is the cause of your water leak.
Who is Responsible For Water Leaks?
In many cases, outside water leaks on your land are your responsibility, however, the responsibility of mains water leaks falls to your water company.
Leaks within your home are also your responsibility, however, if you’re a tenant, your landlord is always responsible for repairs. This includes the structure of the property, along with any appliances and fixtures that may be susceptible to leaks such as sinks, drains and pipework.
If you experience a water leak from an appliance such as a fridge or dishwasher, you may be under warranty and be able to claim for repairs or have the appliance fixed by the supplier.
How To Find Water Leaks in Your Home?
Spotting a water leak in its early stages is crucial to avoid further damage that can be costly and exhaustive to resolve. Knowing the early signs can help you to work out where a water leak is coming from, and begin the repair process.
Drops in water pressure, higher water bills than usual and water meters recording usage when you’re not using water are all signs that can indicate a leak is in your home. You should also watch puddling or pooling around any appliances that are hooked up to the water system.
To find out more on how to spot a water leak in your home, read our helpful blog ‘How To Find A Water Leak In Your Home’.
Get In Touch For Rainbow’s Support With A Water Leak
Water leaks are common in almost every property, especially when things go unchecked for lengthy periods. The warning signs can go amiss and damage can occur when it’s too late.
For more information on how we can help you, read our blog on How does Rainbow’s leak detection service work?
Rainbow Restoration’s team of experts have decades of experience in locating leaks with non-invasive methods and can quickly resolve the issue to take the stress away from you. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help with our water leak detection services and our restoration and repair solutions.
Updated: 24 Apr 2023