What Is Escape of Water Insurance?
Escape of water is one of the most common home insurance claims in the UK. Here's everything you need to know about this essential coverage.
Definition
Escape of water is insurance industry terminology for water damage caused by water escaping from pipes, tanks, appliances, or heating systems inside your property. It's a standard feature of most UK home insurance policies.
What Does Escape of Water Insurance Cover?
Burst Pipes
Water damage from pipes that burst due to freezing, age, or pressure. Includes copper, plastic, and lead pipes.
Leaking Appliances
Water escaping from washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, and other fixed appliances.
Tank Overflows
Water damage from overflowing water tanks, cisterns, and header tanks in lofts or airing cupboards.
Central Heating Leaks
Water escaping from radiators, boilers, valves, and central heating pipes.
Property Damage
Damage to walls, floors, ceilings, plaster, and decorations caused by escaping water.
Contents Damage
Damage to furniture, carpets, electronics, and personal belongings (if you have contents insurance).
What Is NOT Covered by Escape of Water Insurance?
Gradual Leaks
Slow leaks that develop over time due to wear and tear are not covered. Only sudden, accidental damage is included.
Poor Maintenance
Damage caused by neglect, failure to maintain your property, or ignoring known leaks is excluded.
Flood Damage
Water entering from outside (rivers, heavy rain, groundwater) is not covered by escape of water — you need separate flood insurance.
Underground Pipes
Leaks from pipes outside your property boundary (e.g., in the street) are usually not covered.
Unoccupied Properties
Many policies exclude escape of water claims if your property has been empty for more than 30-60 days.
Buildings Insurance vs Contents Insurance
Buildings Insurance
Covers the structure of your property:
- Walls, floors, ceilings
- Plaster and decorations
- Fixed kitchen units
- Bathroom fittings
- Pipes and tanks
Contents Insurance
Covers your belongings:
- Furniture and carpets
- Electronics and appliances
- Clothing and personal items
- Curtains and blinds
- Valuables and jewelry
How to Make an Escape of Water Claim
Stop the Water
Turn off your water supply at the stopcock immediately to prevent further damage.
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of the leak source, water damage, and all affected items before cleaning up.
Contact Your Insurer
Report the escape of water to your insurance company within 24-48 hours.
Arrange Emergency Repairs
Get the leak fixed to prevent further damage. Keep all receipts for reimbursement.
Keep All Evidence
Save invoices, correspondence, and damaged items to support your claim.
Related Insurance Claims
Water Escape Claims
Complete guide to making escape of water insurance claims.
Burst Pipe Claims
Learn about claiming for burst pipe damage on your insurance.
Can I Claim for Water Leak?
Find out if you can claim for water leaks on home insurance.
Flood Damage Claims
Learn about flood damage insurance coverage and claims.
Check If You Can Claim — Free
Not sure if your water damage is covered? Use our free claim checker to find out in minutes.
Need Help with Your Escape of Water Claim?
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