Plumbing compliance checks, explained
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馃毧 So what actually is a plumbing compliance check?
Plumbing compliance covers the checks that keep water safe and working: hot and cold supplies, tanks, leaks and drainage, plus a Legionella risk assessment for rented homes. There's no single 'plumbing certificate', so it's about the right check for your home.
You're expected to assess Legionella risk and keep water and sanitation in repair.
Report drips, low pressure or lukewarm hot water early. Small fixes stay small.
A once-over before winter can save a burst-pipe drama.
Ask about the age of the boiler, tanks and any lead pipework.
What to expect on the day
- The plumber checks taps, pipes, tanks and the hot water temperature.
- They look for leaks, corrosion and anything left stagnant.
- For rentals, they can help you write up the Legionella risk assessment.
- You'll get notes on anything worth fixing.
How to get ready
- Clear access to the stopcock, boiler and any water tanks.
- Note any drips, noises or pressure issues.
- Make the loft accessible if the tank is up there.
- Run taps in rooms you rarely use.
馃挿 What it usually costs
Honest answer: prices vary with the size of your home, what needs checking and how soon you need it. We don't make up "average prices". Get two or three quotes and compare like for like. Check what's included: is a certificate copy extra, and what about re-visits?
Eastern (England)
North West (England)
South West (England)
Bristol 路 Exeter 路 Plymouth 路 Truro
West Midlands (England)
Yorkshire and the Humber (England)
Scotland
Edinburgh 路 Glasgow
Wales
Rules differ by nation
England
- There is no single statutory 'plumbing certificate' for rented homes; landlords must keep water supply, sanitation and heating in repair and assess Legionella risk (HSE guidance, ACOP L8).
- Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm rules (amended 2022) require a CO alarm in rooms with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
Wales
- Since 1 December 2022 most private tenancies in Wales are 'occupation contracts' under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.
- Private landlords and agents in Wales must register (and, if managing, be licensed) with Rent Smart Wales.
- Landlords must keep water, drainage and heating installations in repair and fit for human habitation; Legionella risk should be assessed (HSE ACOP L8).
Scotland
- Private landlords in Scotland must register with the local council (Scottish Landlord Register) before letting.
- Rented homes must meet the Repairing Standard (Housing (Scotland) Act 2006).
- Under the Repairing Standard, water, gas, electricity, sanitation and heating installations must be in reasonable repair and proper working order; a Legionella risk assessment is required.
Northern Ireland
- Private landlords in Northern Ireland must register with the Landlord Registration Scheme.
- Landlords must keep water and sanitation installations in repair; assess Legionella risk.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a plumbing compliance check cost?
Prices vary with property size, what needs checking and how soon you need it. We don't publish price estimates without a citable source - compare two or three quotes.
How do I check a plumbing compliance check provider is genuine?
Ask for WaterSafe / scheme membership and check it on the scheme's register.
Do tenants or homeowners need one too?
Tenants: Report drips, low pressure or lukewarm hot water early. Small fixes stay small. Homeowners: A once-over before winter can save a burst-pipe drama.