What is meant by leaking and freezing water & leaking oil?

This and ‘escape of water’ are terms used in home insurance to describe a water or oil leak that can come from multiple sources in the home.

For example:

  • Leaking pipes (boiler, water or oil tank, radiators or heating system etc.)
  • Burst pipes (caused by water freezing within them)
  • Appliances (i.e. washing machine, dishwasher etc.)


What is not considered an 'Escape or leakage of water' includes (but is not limited to):

  • If you experience water escaping due to the failure, wear and tear or lack of grouting or sealant around baths, showers etc.
  • Overflow of water from blocked guttering

If you experience water entering your property due to weather events like a storm, please see our questions relating to storm damage.

If you’re ready to make a claim, visit online claims.

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Related questions

Will making a claim affect the cost of my policy? What happens if my claim is declined, and I do not agree with the decision? What is a policy excess? How do I pay my excess? Do you need urgent support? I have already started repairs. How will this affect the claim?

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