Dealing with a leak is stressful enough, and the last thing you want to worry about is trying to figure out what your insurance company might be looking for. So, if you get a chance to take some clear pictures (and maybe even a short video too), it will speed up your claim and make it much easier to explain what has happened, see what’s been damaged, all of which helps limit any further loss.
Do this ONLY if it is safe. Turn off the power at the consumer unit (if you feel that it is safe to do so), and keep people away from water near electrics. For an Emergency Plumber Cheltenham, visit https://www.hprservicesltd.com/emergency-plumber-cheltenham/
Quick checklist: what to photograph
1)The leak, or the suspected source of a leak:
Water gushing out of the burst pipe, water streaming from the dripping joint, nonstop water going everywhere. Other leak sources like leaking door seals around failed appliance hoses, wet patches (or dark stains) on the ceiling where no one has spilt anything. For an Emergency Plumber Cheltenham, visit
Cracks, crusting corrosion or splits in pipework are visible.
2) The context of each room
Those same wide-angle photos from the door and across the room.
What path did the water follow from the upstairs bathroom to the downstairs ceiling, for example?
3) The extent of the damage
Ceiling and walls … with water stains (close-up).
Sagging floors, rising laminate and bulging skirting boards.
Wet coving or damp carpet underlay.
Preferably: mould of any kind (photograph if it shows up later, too)
4) Damaged items and contents
Furniture, electronics, linen (such as bedding and curtains), rugs and carpets.
When possible – Serial numbers and model labels (eg, appliances/electronics).
Photo of the item in position and a close-up on damage.
5) Proof that you moved fast to minimise harm
Stopcock in closed position (you can see the valve position photo).
Buckets/towels/dehumidifier in use.
Emergency fixes, such as a pipe clamp.
Details of any emergency plumber visit, notes or invoice.
6) Readings and dates
For example, your boiler pressure gauge (if applicable).
Snap a date/time on your telephone screen beside the damage (discretionary but supportive)
Remember: record a short clip.
Take them through the zones of damage slowly and in a matter-of-fact way, and relay what happened when you found out about it. Video works perfectly for showing things like dripping and pooling as well, but also the scale of damage.
Simple organising tip
VERY IMPORTANT: Don’t forget to create a folder on your phone called “Leak claim”, put all the related pictures/videos/receipts there, along with notes. Make sure to take photos of anything you ditch (including that split hose).
If you do not know what your policy covers, then get all the information that would be needed by your insurance provider before larger repairs.
