The increased use of plastic push-fit pipework is claimed to be one of the most common causes for water leak insurance claims, according to new research published by the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) and the Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP).
Escape of water in buildings is a major issue for both the construction and insurance industries. In the past eight years alone, the total cost of escape of water claims has nearly doubled and, in 2018, nearly one in three of Zurich’s total claims were for water damage caused by burst pipes and escape of water. Such claims are said to cost UK insurers £2.5 million a day, resulting in higher premiums and increased excesses.
The Association of British Insurers states that one of the main issues which has led to an increase in volume of escape of water claims is the increased use of plastic push-fit pipework in renovation and new build projects. Ian Hollingworth, Claims Manager for EC Insurance Co., states that: “We have seen an upsurge in escape of water claims in recent years, and the increasing use of push-fit pipes has, without a doubt, contributed to this rise.”
The research also reveals how escape of water can be caused by material failure from plastic pipes if they come into contact with incompatible materials. These include caulks and fire stopping materials, leak detection fluids, pipe tapes, sealants and paints.
Other factors that the research revealed are poor workmanship and increased ‘DIY’ plumbing installations, perhaps owing to homeowners attempting to install pipes themselves to save money on labour in the cost-of-living crisis. Another factor is a desire for integrated appliances and ‘hidden’ pipework, which conceals unsightly pipework behind walls and panels, making it more difficult to spot a leak.
Andrew Surtees, co-founder of CuSP, comments: “When it comes to piping materials, the results shows that plastic pipes do play a part in the high number of claims, as well as the workmanship of the people installing them. However, the risks of this can be minimised by ensuring that you hire a qualified plumber to install your pipework and also by installing more durable materials, such as copper.”
To find out more and to read the report in full, please visit: website
