Plumbing Tips to Keep In Mind When Moving Into a New House

Before you settle into a new property, a few basic plumbing checks can help you spot leaks, locate the stopcock and avoid preventable blockages.

1. Find the main stopcock

Locate the internal stopcock as soon as you move in. It is often beneath the kitchen sink or near where the main water supply enters the property, but layouts vary. Check that it is accessible and ask a plumber for help if it is seized or leaking.

2. Look for signs of leaks

Check beneath sinks, around toilets and behind accessible appliances for drips, damp patches or staining. Look for unusual water-meter activity when no water is being used, where a meter is fitted. A persistent leak should be investigated promptly.

3. Run taps and check drainage

Check that taps turn off properly and basins, baths and showers drain without backing up. Remove visible hair and debris from accessible strainers. If water drains slowly across several fixtures or there are sewage smells, a drainage specialist may need to investigate.

4. Keep fats and oils out of drains

Allow cooking fat to cool, then dispose of it according to local household-waste or recycling guidance rather than pouring it into the sink. Keep food scraps, wipes and sanitary products out of waste pipes.

5. Clean fittings carefully

Limescale can restrict the flow from tap aerators and showerheads. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidance, especially for plated or coated finishes. Cleaning a blocked outlet can improve flow through that fitting; it does not increase the property's incoming water pressure.

6. Know who to contact

Keep a plumber's details handy before a leak becomes urgent. If you discover problems with a boiler or gas appliance, use the appropriate Gas Safe registered engineer rather than attempting gas-related repairs yourself.

For help with plumbing repairs in your new home, contact HandyExperts on 0330 912 2323.