Date Published 06 January 2025

What Landlords Should Do in the Event of a Burst Pipe

If a pipe bursts at your rental, quick action will save you time and money. Here's what landlords need to know.

To steal a quote from Game of Thrones, ‘Winter is Coming'. (Well, ok it's here already.)

And the colder weather can bring different challenges for landlords, including burst pipes.

What Causes a Burst Pipe?

In cold weather, water in a pipe can freeze. As it freezes, it expands and can split the pipe. Often a burst isn't apparent until the ice melts and the water pours out.

Where Is Most at Risk?

Pipes in habitable rooms that are heated are at less risk of freezing. Pipes in cold places, like attics and cellars, are at greater risk. Outdoor piping, such as in a garage, shed or an outside water tap, is at high risk of freezing.

Tips to Prevent a Burst Pipe

It's still not too late to do some preventative work. Protect vulnerable pipework with foam insulation or spiral wrap. Outside taps should be protected with an outdoor tap cover.

Dealing with a Burst Pipe – Action Plan

If you get a call from your tenant reporting a burst, consider doing this:

Refer your tenant to your letting agent – if you have one and if they handle maintenance for you. (At times like this, a good agent is worth their weight in gold.)

Ask your tenant to turn off the water at the stop tap (also known as a stopcock). It's a good idea to leave instructions in your property showing where this is and how to use it.

Drain the affected pipe – Ask your tenant to turn on the tap it supplies. This could reduce the damage caused considerably.

Call in a plumber or home emergency service – Although this is likely to be easier said than done, especially at Christmas and New Year. Make a shortlist of who you can call if you don't already have a plumber.

Try a temporary fix – If you can't get a plumber immediately and have DIY skills, use pipe repair tape, epoxy resin or a burst pipe clamping kit. These are available from DIY stores.

Of course, a good way for landlords to avoid the problems caused by burst pipes and other emergencies is to hire a good letting agent who can do this for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should tenants do if they discover a burst pipe?

Tenants should immediately turn off the water at the stop tap and drain the affected pipe by turning on the tap it supplies. They should then contact their landlord or letting agent.

2. How can landlords prevent burst pipes?

Landlords can insulate vulnerable pipes with foam insulation or spiral wrap and cover outdoor taps with tap covers to protect them from freezing temperatures.