Calls to reduce instances of water escape on construction sites

Over 70% of property professionals believe that the construction industry should take serious steps to reduce the instances of water escape on construction sites, according to a snapshot survey by Lockton’s Real Estate & Construction division.

Property professionals are becoming increasingly concerned about the level of delays caused by water escape across the UK’s construction sites. Such incidents are not just restricted to smaller contractors undertaking lower value projects but also amongst the largest and most respected construction companies undertaking some of the UK’s most prestigious developments.

David Hayhow of Lockton’s Real Estate & Construction division says: “The threat of fire has traditionally presented the biggest risk to which any construction site is exposed. However, insurers increasingly view the escape of water, as just as important an issue. Water damage presents a clear and present danger; burst pipes and sprinklers can cause huge problems – warranties can be wiped out and contractors potentially saddled with massive losses.

“We are certain that this situation will not be allowed to continue indefinitely; positive action will need to be taken to reverse this growing problem. The question is who will act? If the construction industry does not; history tells us that the insurance industry will.”