Known as flexi hoses, these ‘boogeymen’ are usually found under the sink in your kitchen or bathroom.  A flexi water hose is a plumbing pipe that provides a connection from the main water supply to toilets or sinks.  But when they burst, they are also the leading cause of water damage to Australian homes.

According to insurance company Chubb, claims due to water damage have increased by 72% in five years.  Internal water damage in Australian homes is now a more common and costly risk than fire and burglary.

The rise in claims is partly because modern living requires more plumbed-in appliances using flexi hoses, more bathrooms and laundries on upper levels of homes and more open-plan living spaces.

Flexi hoses are made of rubber and braided stainless steel and are a cheaper option that is seen to be easier to install than normal copper pipes.  They deteriorate over time and can burst if not maintained or changed regularly.   A burst flexi-hose can deliver up to 600 litres of water per hour into your home resulting in significant damage.

Water damage not only causes expensive damage to floors, carpets, furniture and ceilings, it often results in families having to vacate their homes for extended periods while repair work takes place.

Carpet is highly absorbent and whilst a minor spill here or there may not be catastrophic, a burst pipe or a flood in your home can cause severe carpet water damage.  After hours in contact with a carpet, moisture stimulates the growth of dust mites, fungi, and bacteria. Over time, if carpets keep moisture trapped, the foundations beneath your floors may deteriorate, and a bad smell can take over.

Who to call in the event of a flooding emergency