Going on Holiday? Plumbing Checks to Do Before You Leave and When You Return
Planning a holiday is exciting. Whether you are heading abroad for a week or enjoying a longer break, there is often a lot to organise before you leave. One important task that many homeowners overlook is checking their plumbing system.
A small plumbing issue can quickly become a major problem if it develops while your property is empty. Leaks, burst pipes, overflowing appliances and hidden water damage can all occur when nobody is home to spot the warning signs.
At Kyle R C Perry Heating & Plumbing, we regularly help homeowners across Westcliff and Essex deal with avoidable plumbing problems that occurred during holidays.
In this guide, we explain the essential plumbing checks to complete before you leave and the important inspections to carry out when you return home. These practical steps can help protect your property, save money and provide valuable peace of mind while you are away.
Why Should You Check Your Plumbing Before Going on Holiday?
Many plumbing emergencies start as small issues that go unnoticed.
A slow drip under a sink, a worn washing machine hose or a minor leak around a toilet may not seem serious. However, when left unattended for days or weeks, these problems can cause extensive damage.
Completing a few simple checks before travelling can help you:
- Reduce the risk of leaks
- Prevent water damage
- Avoid expensive repair costs
- Protect flooring and furnishings
- Improve home security
- Enjoy your holiday with greater confidence
Top tip
If you are leaving your property empty for more than a few days, it is worth spending 15 to 20 minutes carrying out basic plumbing checks before locking the door.
What Plumbing Checks Should You Do Before Going on Holiday?
Check for Visible Leaks
Start by inspecting areas where leaks commonly occur.
Look under:
- Kitchen sinks
- Bathroom basins
- Toilets
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Boilers and pipework
Pay attention to damp patches, water stains, corrosion or unusual smells.
Addressing a small leak before travelling can prevent significant damage while you are away.
Turn Off Your Main Water Supply
One of the most effective ways to protect your property is by turning off the main water supply.
This simple step can dramatically reduce the risk of flooding caused by burst pipes or failed appliances.
Most properties have an internal stopcock located under the kitchen sink or where the water supply enters the home.
If you are unsure where yours is located, it is worth identifying it before your next trip.
Check Appliances Connected to Water
Modern homes contain several appliances that rely on water connections.
These commonly include:
Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- American-style fridge freezers
- Water softeners
Inspect hoses and connections for signs of wear, cracking or leaks.
Older hoses should be replaced if they show any signs of deterioration.
Inspect Outdoor Taps
Outdoor taps are often overlooked. Check for:
- Drips
- Damaged fittings
- Loose connections
Turning off isolation valves where available can provide additional protection while you are away.
Test Your Boiler and Heating System
Even during summer, many households still rely on their boiler for hot water.
Check that your boiler is operating normally and ensure there are no warning lights or fault codes.
If your annual boiler service is due, arranging maintenance before travelling can provide added reassurance.
Your Quick Holiday Plumbing Checklist
Should You Turn Off Your Boiler Before Going Away?
This depends on the length of your holiday and your household requirements.
For shorter holidays, many homeowners leave their boiler operating for hot water settings whereas for longer trips, it may be sensible to reduce settings or switch systems to holiday mode if available.
Always follow manufacturer guidance and seek professional advice if unsure.
Should You Clear Drains Before Going Away?
Yes! Blocked drains can worsen while a property is unoccupied.
Before leaving, you should:
- Run water through sinks and basins
- Remove debris from plugholes
- Empty food waste containers
- Check external drainage areas
Keeping drains clear helps reduce unpleasant odours and drainage problems.
Holiday plumbing tip
Pour water into infrequently used drains before travelling. This helps maintain the water seal that prevents unpleasant smells entering your property.
Is It Worth Asking Someone to Check Your Property Whilst Your Away?
If you are away for an extended period, asking a trusted friend, family member or neighbour to check your property can be extremely beneficial.
They can:
- Look for signs of leaks
- Check for unusual noises
- Identify external issues
- Contact you if problems arise
This extra layer of protection can be particularly valuable during longer holidays.
Need plumbing advice before your next holiday?
At Kyle R C Perry Heating & Plumbing, we help homeowners across Westcliff and Essex keep their plumbing and heating systems in excellent condition throughout the year.
Whether you need a boiler service, leak inspection, plumbing maintenance or expert advice before travelling, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to arrange a professional inspection and enjoy complete peace of mind before your next holiday.
What Plumbing Checks Should You Do When You Return Home?
Returning from holiday is exciting, but it is important not to ignore your plumbing system.
A quick inspection can help identify any issues that may have developed during your absence.
Check for Signs of Water Damage
Walk through your property and look for:
- Damp patches
- Water stains
- Peeling paint
- Unusual odours
- Warped flooring
These can indicate hidden leaks that occurred while you were away.
Turn Water Supply Back On Carefully
If you switched off the water supply before travelling, restore it slowly.
Observe pipework, taps and appliances while pressure returns to the system and watch for any signs of dripping or leakage.
Test Taps and Fixtures
Run water through:
- Kitchen taps
- Bathroom taps
- Showers
- Toilets
This helps confirm everything is functioning correctly.
Check Appliances Again
It is tempting to throw a wash on the moment you walk through the door, especially after a week of living out of a suitcase. Before you do, it is worth taking thirty seconds to glance behind your washing machine and dishwasher first.
When you do run that first load, stay in earshot for the first few minutes rather than heading straight upstairs to unpack. Keep an eye out for:
- Water pooling underneath the machine
- Hoses that look loose or have shifted position
- Any banging, grinding or unusual noises during the cycle
If everything runs smoothly, you can get on with the rest of your unpacking with peace of mind. If something does not look or sound right, turn the appliance off, isolate the water supply if needed, and get in touch with us before running it again.
Check Boiler Performance
Ensure your boiler is operating correctly and providing hot water as expected. Any unusual noises, pressure issues or warning indicators should be investigated promptly.
Common Plumbing Problems Discovered After Holidays
Some of the most common issues homeowners discover after returning include:
- Hidden leaks
- Appliance hose failures
- Boiler pressure loss
- Blocked drains
- Faulty stopcocks
- Outdoor tap damage
Identifying these problems early can help minimise repair costs.
Found a problem?
If you have found a problem, get in touch with us straight away. Our team is here to help resolve it quickly and properly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Plumbing Checks
In many cases, yes. Turning off the main water supply can help reduce the risk of leaks and flooding while your property is empty.
Although less common than winter, pipe failures and leaks can still occur during warmer months.
Look for damp patches, mould growth, water stains or unusually high water bills.
This depends on the length of your trip and your heating system. Follow manufacturer guidance and seek professional advice if needed.
Turn off the water supply if necessary and contact a qualified plumbing professional, like Kyle R C Perry Heating & Plumbing, as soon as possible.
Most homeowners benefit from periodic inspections, especially before long holidays and after winter.
Small checks today, no surprises when you return
A few simple plumbing checks before leaving for holiday can help protect your home from costly damage and unnecessary stress. Equally, carrying out inspections when you return ensures that any issues are identified quickly before they become major problems.
Taking a proactive approach to plumbing maintenance can help safeguard your property, reduce repair costs and provide complete peace of mind whether you are away for a weekend or several weeks.