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Water Leaks
CLAIMING FOR HOUSEHOLD WATER LEAKS
Household leaks are a common and often frustrating issue for tenants.
Leaks, whether from a leaking roof, plumbing, or other sources, can cause significant damage to your home.
WHAT CAUSES HOUSEHOLD LEAKS?
Household leaks can occur for various reasons, including:
- Leaking roofs – caused by age, wear, or severe weather can result in water seeping into your home, often from damaged tiles or poor sealing.
- Plumbing issues – leaks from pipes, taps, and toilets can occur when pipes corrode, become damaged, or are improperly installed.
- Blocked gutters and drains – causes water to overflow, leading to leaks.
It’s essential to identify the source of the leak to determine the proper course of action.
SPOTTING SIGNS OF LEAKS IN YOUR PROPERTY
- Discoloration or dark spots on ceilings, walls, or floors.
- Bubbling, peeling, or flaking paint and wallpaper.
- Visible mould or mildew, often in damp rooms.
- Bowing ceilings or walls due to water buildup.
- A sudden spike in water usage without an apparent reason.
- Wet spots or puddles forming on floors.
- Signs of rust or corrosion around pipes.
- Cracked grout around bathtubs, showers, or sinks.
REPORTING A WATER LEAK IN YOUR HOME
Report the issues to your Landlord!
Early reporting helps prevent further damage and shows that you’ve acted responsibly.
Any delay could lead to more severe damage.
- Document the leak by taking clear photos of the affected areas, including any visible water damage.
- Keep a record of when you first noticed the problem, the actions you’ve taken to manage it, when you reported it to your Landlord, and any worsening signs.
PAINTING OVER WATER STAINS OR CLEANING UP WITHOUT FIXING THE LEAK JUST HIDES THE PROBLEM.
REPORTING TO YOUR LANDLORD
If you discover a leak, contact your landlord as soon as possible. The longer you wait to report the leak, the greater the risk of water damage, structural issues, and potential mould growth.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU WAIT TO GET THE PROBLEM FIXED?
Once you’ve reported a leak to your landlord, they should act swiftly to resolve the issue. They’re legally obligated to fix leaks within a reasonable time frame.
Typically, this should be within a few days to a week, depending on the severity of the leak.
If the leak is severe or causes ongoing water damage, repairs should be prioritised.
If your landlord fails to fix the leak in a timely manner, keep reporting!
YOUR RIGHTS AS A TENANT
As a tenant in England and Wales, you have rights when it comes to dealing with leaks and other housing disrepair issues.
Your landlord must keep your home safe, including fixing leaks. You should report any leaks promptly, and keep a record.
