What to Do If You Discover a Water Leak in Your Home

Finding water somewhere it shouldn’t be can be stressful, particularly if you aren’t sure where the leak is coming from.

Acting quickly can help reduce water damage and make the problem easier to deal with.

Here’s what you should do if you discover a leak in your home.

If there is a significant leak and water is continuing to escape, your first priority should be stopping the water supply where it is safe to do so.

Knowing the location of your property’s internal stopcock is useful before an emergency happens.

Stopcocks are commonly found underneath kitchen sinks, inside cupboards, utility rooms or close to where the mains water pipe enters the property.

Turning it clockwise will normally shut off the water supply.

If water is leaking into a room, move furniture, electrical items and other belongings away from the affected area where it is safe to do so.

Buckets or containers can be placed underneath dripping water to reduce further damage.

Towels can also help prevent smaller amounts of water from spreading across flooring.

Water and electricity can create a serious hazard.

If water is leaking near electrical fittings, sockets, appliances or the consumer unit, avoid touching the affected area.

If you believe there is an electrical risk, you may also need assistance from a qualified electrician.

The visible water isn’t always directly underneath the actual leak.

Check nearby:

However, avoid dismantling plumbing if you aren’t confident doing so.

Not every leak results in a flooded room.

Sometimes the first warning is a small damp patch, occasional drip or unexplained increase in moisture.

Even a relatively minor leak can eventually damage plaster, flooring, timber and decoration if it is allowed to continue.

Once the immediate situation is under control, the next step is identifying and repairing the cause.

A plumber can inspect the affected area, determine where the leak originates and recommend the appropriate repair.

Getting the problem checked promptly can also reduce the likelihood of further water damage.

Need a Local Plumber in Chislehurst?

If you’ve discovered a leak or another plumbing problem in your property, Chislehurst Plumbers can help.

We provide dependable plumbing services throughout Chislehurst and the surrounding area, from everyday repairs to more urgent plumbing issues.

Contact Chislehurst Plumbers today to arrange a visit.