Determining the responsibility for a groundwater leak on your property can be a complex issue and may depend on various factors, including local laws, regulations, and specific circumstances surrounding the leak.

In the Thames Water area the general rule is that they [Thames Water] are responsible for the mains infrastructure and the supply to the boundary of your property, beyond that boundary then you or your landlord is responsible.



Water leaks are bad news, as well as no water or low water pressure, there is the possibility of contamination of the water supply as well as the leak overwhelming the property's sewage system.

Not only that, if you are on a water meter, then you are paying for every litre wasted!

Your first priority should be to consult and expert (specialist water leak plumbers), ensuring that they are Thames Water Approved (there is a list on their website). We recommend CW Pipewise who are Thames Water Approved and who will advise you as to;

a) where the leak is and who’s responsibility it is

b) the appropriate remedy

c) take remedial action to stop further leakage and damage.

Here are a few further considerations:

1. Location of the leak: If the leak originates from Thames Water’s infrastructure (e.g., water mains, pipes, or equipment), they may be responsible for repairing it. Water companies typically maintain and are accountable for their distribution systems up to the point of delivery to your property.

2. Responsibility of the property owner: In many cases, property owners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the water service line that runs from the point of delivery (e.g., water meter) into their property. If the leak is on this part of the water supply system, it could be your responsibility.

3. External factors: Groundwater leaks can also be caused by external factors, such as natural events (e.g., earthquakes or soil movements) or third-party activities (e.g., construction work by others). In such cases, responsibility might be more complicated and could involve multiple parties.

4. Local laws and regulations: Different regions have specific laws and regulations governing water supply and responsibility for leaks. These laws may impact who is liable for addressing the groundwater leak.

If you have a water leak in to your property you MUST report the groundwater leak to Thames Water and ask them to investigate the source. They should be able to determine if the issue is within their infrastructure or if it is your responsibility to fix.

Here is a link to report a leak in the Thames Water area:

https://www.thameswater.co.uk/leak

For further help and information please contact:

Mr Charly Wild

CW Pipewise Ltd

Tel: 07470 175435

https://cwpipewise.co.uk/