Possible leak - but how do I find out?

flimsier

So downstairs, right by the light fitting (I know) in the middle of the living room, a small (approx 2-3 sq cm total) patch (well, three small patches) have turned slightly yellow.

It's wallpapered (previous owners).

It's not wet, yet I think it's damp from a slow leak or drip.

This is possible as the shower was leaking (though it's in the middle of the ceiling and hence the middle of the room above, which is my daughters' room) into the fitted wardrobe in my daughters room. This dripping leak, I think, was due to the pipe being blocked and I've unblocked it using one of those heavy duty chemicals you stick down the plug, dried the leak, and am awaiting to see if it comes back (to replace the shower, or even to check, will mean having the wardrobe removed - it's a long story and a crap design).

It could be very serious. I know that. But I want someone to tell me what I should do to fix it (or indeed, to fix whatever it is).

I have contents and accidental damage insurance.

What is my next step? Do I contact my insurance company? A plumber? Someone else who can help? Will they charge?

Is there anything else it could be aside from a water leak?

Thanks in advance to anyone who replies.

phill99

It would be unusual for a blockage to create a leak or drip. It can be one of three things:

1) A leak on the waste
2) A leak on the incoming water supply. You don't say whether it's an electric shower (cold feed only)or a shower mixer valve (hot and cold feeds)
3) Failure of the mastic between the shower tray and tiles.

You need to get a plumber out to try and identify the source I the leak.

Your insurers won't pay for this. They will only pay for the damaged caused by the leak.

flimsier

Thanks.

I thought the blockage might have caused some seeping from the waste pipe.

I don't think it's the incoming supply. The boiler is in my daughters room (in the other cupboard). I'm going to reseal the shower, as this is possible. I guess this is all the plumber would do in the first instance anyway?

keystone

Lift the floorboards near the light fitting and have a peek to see whats going on. The patches may have nothing whatsoever to do with the previous shower leak.

Cheers

phill99

flimsier wrote: »

Thanks.

I thought the blockage might have caused some seeping from the waste pipe.

I don't think it's the incoming supply.

It could easily be the incoming supply. The pipe will have numerous joints in it, any one of which can leak.