Which Is Cheaper? Gas vs Electric Boilers for UK Homes
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For most UK homes, gas boilers are cheaper to run. In 2025-2026, electricity costs more per kWh than gas under the Ofgem price cap, but is more efficient.
It often begins with a stain, a slow drip, or a damp patch on the ceiling that you’re sure wasn’t there yesterday. One minute, you’re boiling the kettle; the next, you’re tracing watermarks up the wall and wondering how much worse it’s going to get.
Then come the questions:
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), insurers pay out £1.8 million for water leaks every day. Yet, while water leaks occur frequently, obtaining a successful insurance payout can be a challenging task.
In this guide, we’ll explain what your policy may cover. We’ll also show you what to do next. We’ll also discuss how Greenstar’s expert leak detection services can help you establish a solid and worry-free claim.
In most cases, yes, but it depends on what caused the leak. Most buildings and contents insurance policies cover sudden damage from internal water systems.
More often than not, this is referred to as a water escape claim and covers:
What insurers typically don’t cover is damage that has occurred gradually. If the leak has been slowly dripping behind your walls for months or has resulted from long-term wear and tear, things get trickier. Insurers often won’t pay out for damage that’s been quietly building up due to a lack of maintenance or age-related issues. That means anything like old grouting, worn seals, or corroded pipes could fall into the “not covered” column.
For example, if a pipe bursts overnight and soaks your kitchen floor, that’s likely to be covered. But if your bathroom ceiling has been discolouring for weeks due to a slow drip from above, your claim could be rejected. Either way, documenting what’s happened – and acting fast – makes all the difference.
If you’re unsure what your policy includes, now is a good time to review the terms and conditions, including any exclusions. Many providers also have 24-hour helplines for claims support. You can find impartial guidance on how home insurance works at MoneyHelper, a free UK Government-backed advice service.
Once you’ve spotted a leak – whether it’s a visible drip, an ominous ceiling stain, or a steadily growing puddle – the clock starts ticking. Insurers expect you to take reasonable steps to limit the damage, which they refer to as mitigation.
Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean fixing it all yourself; but it does mean acting promptly:
You’ll usually find your stopcock under the kitchen sink or at the point where the water enters your home. If you suspect that water may have reached any electrical components, turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. After all, safety first!
First, take photos and short videos of the damaged areas. Focus on the ceilings, walls, floors, furniture, and any other items that have been affected. Even if the issue seems small, it’s worth documenting. This will form the foundation of your claim.
According to MoneyHelper, you should notify your provider as soon as possible. Some insurers may ask you to complete a digital claim form or upload your images online. Having everything ready early will save you time and stress.
Avoid jumping straight into repairs unless there is a risk of further damage. If you need to act quickly, ensure that you keep receipts and request a written report from any contractor you use. And if you’re unsure where the leak is coming from?
That’s where professional leak detection comes in, and it could be the key to getting your claim approved.
Insurers don’t just want to see the damage; they want to understand what caused it. That’s where professional leak detection becomes your best ally.
At Greenstar, we utilise non-invasive methods, including thermal imaging, tracer gas testing, and acoustic testing. These techniques enable us to locate the source of a leak accurately and with minimal disruption. This not only prevents further damage to your home but also gives your insurer the clarity they need to assess your claim.
More importantly, we provide a detailed written report that includes:
These reports can be beneficial if your insurer covers trace and access, the results of finding and exposing a hidden leak. The Financial Ombudsman Service notes that evidence disputes often come up in water damage claims. A professional report helps lower the chances of delays or denials.
At Greenstar, we can also carry out water mains repairs, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors, quotes, or explanations.
Strong proof, expert help, and quick action can change a stressful problem into an easy fix. Water leaks are undoubtedly disruptive. But when you know what to do, and who to call, managing the damage and making a successful home insurance claim becomes a lot less overwhelming. It’s not just about fixing the leak. It’s about taking the proper steps in the correct order with the right support.
That’s where Greenstar comes in. We identify hidden leaks, generate reports for insurers, and manage repairs. We make every step easier for you. You don’t have to do this alone, and with us on your side, your claim stands on firmer ground. So, do you need help tracking down a leak or preparing evidence for your insurance company?
Call us now at 01202 355 344, get in touch, or explore our leak detection and emergency plumbing services today.
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