How do I make an emergency plumbing plan for a rental property?

Prepare property information

1. 1Identify and label the internal stopcock, then confirm it works without force. Arrange repair if it is seized, damaged or leaking.
2. 2Record the outside stop tap or water meter location and the water company's contact details. Note any shared-supply restrictions or building-manager procedure.
3. 3Keep details of heating, hot-water and appliance isolation points, using plain labels and instructions.
4. 4Store photographs, plumbing plans, maintenance records and insurer contact information where an authorised agent can access them.

Give tenants a simple response guide

Provide an emergency phone number and a clear route for non-urgent maintenance reports. Explain what information helps: where the water is, whether it is still flowing, when it began and whether electrics may be affected.

Tell tenants not to force a stiff stopcock, dismantle pipework or touch wet electrical equipment. If water is near electrics, they should keep away and, if safe, turn off power at the consumer unit. For a gas smell, leave and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Plan for response and follow-up

Decide who can authorise emergency attendance, provide access and update the tenant. Maintain contact details for suitable plumbers and the managing agent, and explain any building access arrangements. Do not promise a fixed arrival time unless confirmed by the service provider.

After an incident, record reports, actions, photographs, findings and repair invoices. Check with the insurer about notification, evidence and damaged materials. Follow up to make sure the leak is resolved and any drying or reinstatement is arranged.