1. Address Leaks Promptly:
Leaving leaks unattended can lead to significant damage that spreads and worsens over time. Act quickly to minimize the damage and the need for extensive restoration work. If you plan to file a claim with your building insurance, swift action is crucial. Most insurers expect action within 30 days of the incident.

2. Review Your Insurance Coverage:
Ensure that your insurance policy includes coverage for “Trace & Access.” This provision typically allocates funds, often around £5000, for locating and accessing sources of water escape. Check your policy to verify that it’s up to date and provides adequate coverage for such situations.

3. Locate and Test Your Stop Valves:
Take the time to locate and test the stop valves both outside your property and inside. It’s not uncommon for valves to be difficult to find or malfunction when needed. Being able to shut off the water supply quickly can prevent a minor leak from turning into a major disaster.

4. Address Known Issues:
Before conducting a leak detection, fix any minor leaks or issues like dripping taps or toilet pan dribbling. Often, what seems like a significant leak may be caused by simple maintenance issues. Resolving these beforehand can streamline the leak detection process and ensure accurate results.

5. Consider Your Insurance Claim Options:
Decide whether you’ll handle the insurance claim process yourself or enlist the help of a claims management service. While managing the claim independently offers control, utilizing a claims management service can ease the process, especially for significant claims. Discuss your options with the engineer onsite to determine the best course of action for your situation.

By following these five steps, you can effectively manage leaks and water damage, minimizing the impact on your property and streamlining the insurance claims process.