What to Do If You Have a Leak in Your Home

Discovering a leak in your home can be stressful, whether it’s a dripping pipe or a suspected gas leak. Knowing how to act quickly and safely is crucial to protect your property and loved ones, especially in areas like Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Fife. This guide outlines the essential steps to take if you encounter a leak, with a focus on domestic gas safety and when to call a Gas Safe engineer.

1. Identify the Type of Leak

First, determine whether the leak involves water, gas, or another substance. Water leaks often appear as damp spots, puddles, or dripping from pipes, while gas leaks may produce a distinctive “rotten egg” smell, hissing sounds, or symptoms like dizziness and nausea. If you suspect a gas leak in your domestic gas system, act immediately, as it poses serious risks.

2. Turn Off the Supply

For water leaks:

• Locate your main water stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink or in a utility cupboard) and turn it off to stop the flow.

• Drain the system by running taps or flushing toilets.

For gas leaks:

• Turn off the gas supply at the meter, typically found outside or in a utility room.

• Open all windows and doors to ventilate the area.

• Avoid using electrical switches, naked flames, or anything that could ignite the gas.

If you’re unsure how to do this safely in your Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Fife home, evacuate and call a professional immediately.

3. Call a Professional

For water leaks, contact a plumber to assess and repair the damage. For gas leaks, you must call a Gas Safe engineer. Only Gas Safe registered professionals are qualified to work on domestic gas appliances, such as boilers or gas pipes. In an emergency, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999, then arrange for a Gas Safe engineer to inspect your system. Regular maintenance, like an annual check or boiler service, can prevent leaks by identifying issues early.

4. Mitigate Damage

While waiting for help:

• Place buckets or towels under water leaks to contain drips.

• Move furniture, electronics, or valuables away from the affected area.

• For gas leaks, evacuate the property and avoid re-entering until a Gas Safe engineer declares it safe.

5. Prevent Future Leaks

Preventing leaks starts with proactive maintenance. Schedule an annual check for your gas appliances to ensure they’re in top condition. A boiler service by a Gas Safe engineer can catch worn parts or weak seals before they fail. For water systems, insulate pipes during winter to prevent freezing, especially in colder regions like Fife or Edinburgh. Regularly inspect visible pipes for corrosion or wear.

6. Know Your Insurance

Check your home insurance policy to see if it covers leak repairs and resulting damage. Document the leak with photos and keep receipts for repairs. Prompt action can minimize costs and strengthen your claim.

Stay Safe and Proactive

Whether you’re in Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Fife, handling a leak calmly and efficiently is key. Always prioritize safety, especially with domestic gas issues, and rely on a Gas Safe engineer for gas-related concerns. By scheduling an annual check and boiler service, you can reduce the risk of leaks and keep your home safe. If you’re unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to call a professional—better safe than sorry!

Need a trusted Gas Safe engineer in your area? Contact us for expert service and peace of mind.