Plumbing Overview

I Have No Water

First check with your neighbours. If they also have no water, the issue is likely with the water company.

If it’s just your property, check your stopcock. This is usually under the sink, though sometimes outside in a pavement hatch.

In very cold weather, pipes may freeze. If safe, gently thaw using warm air (such as a hair dryer) and consider insulating the pipe to prevent it happening again.

Water Is Leaking From a Pipe

If the pipe is part of your heating system (e.g. radiator pipes), you will need a heating engineer rather than a plumber.

If it’s a standard water pipe, check whether the leak is visible and accessible. If hidden (walls, ceilings, floors), trace and access may be required.

What you should do immediately

• Turn off the water at the stopcock if possible
• Use a bucket or container to catch water
• Minimise further damage while waiting

My Tap or Toilet Is Leaking or Not Working

Taps

A dripping tap is usually not an emergency and can often be fixed by replacing a washer or cartridge.

If the leak is under the sink, isolate the supply if possible and call a plumber.

Toilets

Toilet issues are usually caused by:

• Leaking seals (clean or waste side)
• Failed flush or fill valves
• Leaking feed pipe

If brown water is leaking — stop using the toilet immediately.

If it’s a clean water leak, isolate and empty the cistern if possible before calling a plumber.

General Plumbing Advice

Knowing where your stopcock is can save serious damage. It controls the water supply to your home.

If water is leaking near electrics, do not touch anything. Turn off power if safe to do so and wait for professionals.

During cold weather, leaving heating on low and insulating pipes can help prevent freezing.

If water is dripping through a ceiling light, turn the light off and leave it to dry once the leak is fixed. Have it checked afterwards.