High cost of home water leaks
Water leaks in the home cost insurers an estimated £880 million in 2009, shows a new report from WWF and RSA.
Undetected leaks not only waste water but are a significant risk for the insurance industry through damage to buildings and property. Sixty-six percent of household claims each year are due to an escape of water, costing an average £2,000 but rising to around £20,000 depending on how long a leak has gone undetected.
The report, due out by the end of the year, also highlights how tackling leaks and using water more efficiently can reduce carbon emissions linked to home water use, pumping and treatment. With hot water use accounting for 25% of UK household CO2 emissions, improving water conservation could make a real difference to cutting the UK's carbon footprint.
The report makes recommendations for how government, insurance and water companies can improve household water efficiency and tackle leaks. It argues increased awareness, water meters, retro-fitting water efficiency and leak detection devices, coupled with efforts to change wasteful habits, all have a role to play.
