Plumbing problems can be a significant source of stress for both tenants and landlords. Understanding who is responsible for addressing and paying for plumbing issues is crucial to maintaining a healthy and functional rental relationship. This guide will clarify the responsibilities of both parties under UK law, ensuring smooth communication and quick resolution when plumbing problems arise.

Water is one of the most vital resources in any commercial or industrial property, particularly in manufacturing plants, food processing factories, and other complexes that heavily rely on water. However, water quality cannot be taken for granted, as issues like hard water can have negative outcomes for commercial and industrial properties. Hard water is a type of water that is high in mineral content, particularly calcium and magnesium minerals, that often causes negative effects on pipework, appliances and machinery.

All properties that are provided with mains water will have an external stop valve installed, this controls the flow of water to the property. When a property is in a terrace or is semi-detached there can be either one stop valve or multiple external stop valves on the supply to the properties, although each individual dwelling will have its own meter.

A soakaway is basically a hole in the ground into which rainwater is directed from the house or a hardstanding and allowed to percolate through the surrounding soil. The main aim of this is to alleviate flooding of a particular area and in turn stop damage to the building. Generally, a soakaway consists of pipework coming from a drainpipe, leading from guttering on a roof, storm channels or a French drainage system made from a network of perforated pipework surrounded by aggregate.

In the Winter months frozen water pipes can be a problem which can lead to major damage to your property, they can crack and then hundreds of gallons of water can flood into your house, leading to structural damage and mould growth.