Common Lead Supply Pipe... Burst in Neighbour's Garden

Scooby_Drew

Hi,

Apologies if this has been answered before, but I can'tr find anything on a search.

I live at the end a row of semis (built 1920s) and we have a lead common supply pipe that runs along the back of our houses. My house is the first on the line from the road.

A few days ago the main was discovered to have burst in my next-door-but-one neaighbour's garden. Naturally, she had to have it fixed and paid cash.

I have tried to find a definitive answer on who is liable, but it seems to be a very grey area. As my house is before the rest in terms of flow, I have read on the net that I am not liable for any of the pipe "downstream".

I have full Homeserve cover and they say they'll cover my share, but I don't think I'm liable.

Also, and most importantly, I've been told that it's not right to mend a lead pipe... if they are damaged they should be replaced.

Can anyone explain: a) who is liable? b) should the whole main be replaced now it is damaged?

Thanks in advance...

tealady

Hi
If it was the sewer then its either the water company or whoever is upstream of the break. I would suggest that you ring your local Council Environmental health office for advice as they may be able to advise. or ask your water company.

Mobeer

Have you looked in your property deeds for guidance?

thamespirate

Hi common supply pipe , all on the line are liable for the repair and up keep of the pipe , so dosent matter whos garden it burst the pipe belong s to all propertys on line.
i would not buy a house on a common supply nothing but trouble,

thamespirate

sorry did not read last part , would be better to replace with new blue poly pipe , most water companys will replace the pipe at a discount , check with water co, for any offers , all on the pipe line need to pay a share as jointly responsable. all need to get to get together this is where it goes wrong , as no one wants to pay or accept responsability, good luck .