Flexi hose warning

Over the past three years almost 10,000 claims have been lodged with RACQ for water damage to homes.

RACQ data revealed a common cause of the claims were burst pipes and hoses connected to dishwashers and taps which had caused extensive damage to homes, with the costs of the average claim jumping by 20%.

RACQ spokesperson Lucinda Ross said the Club found flexi hoses, which were installed in many Queensland homes, resulted in a spike in claims.

“Most home owners don’t realise this particular product is prone to bursting and needs to be replaced, otherwise it might result in a leak,” Ms Ross said.

“It’s important to get under the sink or ask a plumber to check whether you have a flexi hose installed and if it’s nearing expiry. 

“By doing a few simple checks you can reduce your risk of encountering a waterlogged home.”

What is a flexi hose?

Flexi hoses are flexible hoses and rubber pipes which are surrounded by braided lengths of stainless steel. They’re cheap, widely used around the home and mostly used with:

• Kitchen sinks
• Bathroom sinks
• Toilets
• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Taps connected to your home mains
• Plumbed fridges

How much damage can a flexi hose cause?

Flexi hoses have a limited working life and should be checked bi-annually. The risk of bursting and flooding a home increases dramatically around the 10-year mark. The damage caused can be extreme, with water flooding your house in a matter of seconds, leading to ruined cabinets, walls, floors, and mould which, in some extreme cases, can make your home uninhabitable.

What should I do if I have flexi hoses installed?

• Look for signs of ageing: Warning signs for faulty flexi hoses include rust spots, bulging sections on the metal exterior and fraying or kinking.
• Warranty checks: Ensure all new flexi hoses come with an extended warranty period. If it’s a pre-existing hose, you can check for the expiry on the collar of the hose.
• Check its surroundings: If you store chemicals under your sink, you could be putting your hose at risk of damage before the expiry date.
• Installation: If you have flexi hoses or are installing new ones, ensure they are checked and fitted by a professional plumber.
• Maintenance: Make sure to do regular checks of your flexi hoses and feel along the outer casing for any signs of damage. If you suspect a fault, contact a plumber immediately.

Know you’re Covered:

Enjoy the security that Queensland’s Largest Club offers with RACQ Home and Contents Insurance. And, remember to call a professional plumber to install and service your hoses to ensure your home is safe.