Smashed soil pipe

gardening_lover

We moved in to our house about 4 months ago and it has been endless problems. The latest issue is the soil pipe. We noticed a musty smell in the downstairs bathroom and after removing the boxing around the main cast iron soil pipe, discovered that there is a large chunk missing and water gushing out when anything runs up stairs. There is also dirt around the bottom rather than concrete. Should the dirt be there or is this something bad? Is this an issue I can go back to my home insurance with? They have already been out to fix the leak when we first noticed. Can this be solved with some silicon/expanding foam? It’s our first house and we’ve been very overwhelmed with issues the survey seemingly missed 

MikeJXE

A photo would be good

flashg67

Multiple insurance claims will increase your premiums so worth looking at alternatives first maybe. Cast iron can be patched - Google brings up some DIY methods. Photo(s) might help if you can

FreeBear

Small holes can often be patched with a resin as long as the are clean and dry. Bigger holes, you can get split clamps with rubber seals, but they are expensive. A semi-bodge would be to wrap a sheet of rubber around the pipe followed by a length of metal sheet (I'd suggest stainless steel) and secure the whole lot with plenty of jubilee clips. Some silicone sealant would ensure a watertight seal.

Long term, the cast iron pipe needs to be replaced - Not an easy job, and it will be messy. I've got to replace a section of cast iron pipe here next month... Not looking forward to it as it involves cutting out a tee, making a hole in the wall, and then splicing in new PVC pipe.