Quensus warns that vacant and partially occupied buildings face heightened water damage risks as winter approaches, putting developers, property owners and insurers under pressure to prevent burst pipes and undetected leaks from escalating into costly claims. The leak prevention specialist highlights how intelligent water monitoring and automatic shut-off technology can help limit losses when buildings are left unattended.

Quensus’ analysis highlights the scale of the problem, with escape of water accounting for approximately 30% of UK property claim costs, according to industry actuarial analysis cited by the company. It also points to construction industry data suggesting around two-thirds of sites experience water escape incidents. In one documented vacant new-build handover case, flooding resulted in a £2.5m loss, while a separate incident delayed a programme by 18 months.

These incidents expose a particular weakness in the period between construction completion and full occupation. Buildings may contain expensive finishes, newly commissioned mechanical and electrical systems and substantial investment, yet have little operational history and no permanent occupants to identify problems early. Without someone on site, a leak can continue for hours before it is discovered, spreading through floors and damaging completed interiors.

Cold weather adds to the exposure. Water trapped in unheated areas, plant rooms and service voids can freeze, damaging pipes and fittings before leaks emerge during a thaw. Temperature fluctuations can also place stress on joints and flexible connections. Meanwhile, temporary heating arrangements, incorrectly configured frost protection and commissioning errors can leave vulnerable sections of a building exposed.

For developers and investors, the consequences extend beyond the immediate repair bill.

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