Where to go next

[ceepee]

Hi,

I'm looking for some general advice regarding a plumbing problem I have, hope thats OK? Sorry for the essay.

A couple of weeks ago we noticed a rushing/hissing sound in our water pipes, did some googling and realised this probably indicated a leak. So I called Severn Trent who sent someone out, who did some tests and agreed there was a leak between the street and the stopcock in our kitchen. The next day they sent some contractors out who dug two holes, failed to find the leak and then left. Severn Trent now basically say its our problem!

I have spoken to our insurance company who say if it is an insured peril they will foot the repair bill. My problem is finding someone to actually do the repair. The only company i have found so far offer a "find and fix" service a £850 + VAT and (obviously they can't guarantee that it will only take one day either).

My question is then, is this reasonable and where else should I be looking for quotes?

Any help/advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

 

[Bernie2]

Yes unfortunately, once inside your property boundary it is the householders problem.

However, if the main is lead, grants off your water supplier may be available for replacement.

I don't know if the price is high or not, depends what is involved. Digging up and laying the new main, then making good is labour intensive and it would probably be at least a two man job.

Then the water supplier may want to inspect the work before, during and after its done, to ensure its of a standard they will want to supply water too.

Another way is a company that advertises themselves as The Mole. Basically they dig a couple of holes and then send a probe through attaching a pipe as it goes. It saves a lot of digging. But will probably depend on what sort of ground make up you have, it may be rough and put holes in a new mdpe pipe. It also depends on whether any other services are in the way.

You can't send a mole through without checking, it may go through drains, telephone wires, electric cables or even gas mains.

However if its a straight run in good ground it should be easy, other wise its digging up and routing around obstacle. You may even have plants or trees in the way.

It all depends on what is required to be done as to a price.

Hope this helps a bit!