Training

Winter guide to burst water pipes

by Mark Rowe

Last year, the number of claims for damage from burst water pipes alone was the equivalent of one every two minutes, according to a property protection company. As temperatures in the UK drop below zero, VPS, the vacant property contractor, has provided a checklist and re-issued their Cold Weather Plan on wintry weather damage. In 2014 over 260,000 claims were made for damage caused from burst water pipes.

Anthony Owen, VPS’ Managing Director, pictured, said: “We issue our winter weather guides in autumn. But when the weather is mild, many landlords turn a blind eye to preparing their properties for ice and snow. It takes a cold snap like we have now to bring more urgency to the issue. All properties are at risk from wet or freezing weather or a heavy snow fall, but empty properties are particularly vulnerable, as damage can go unnoticed for days or weeks. Leaks from even a small burst pipe can release thousands of gallons of water if left unattended. The average insurance claim is an estimated £25,000 but costs can reach £100,000 or more for water damage to commercial properties.

“Take action now. Prevention really is better than cure, and far more cost effective. Follow the tips in the free VPS guide, and ensure your empty properties are checked and maintained. We know this from experience – our inspectors carry out over 100,000 inspections a year and they can vouch how much money can be saved from preventing a burst pipe occurring than from the clean-up and repair afterwards.”

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