In This Guide
Can I Claim for Trace and Access ?
Yes, in most cases, homeowners can make more than one trace and access claim. Buildings insurance policies generally do not limit the number of times you can claim for trace and access cover, provided each instance meets the conditions outlined in your home insurance policy.
Each claim must be for a new and qualifying water leak-not simply the recurrence of a poorly repaired leak or an unresolved issue. If the leaking pipe or the leak’s source is in a different location or has occurred due to unrelated reasons, it typically qualifies as a separate claim.
Some insurers may review repeat claims to determine whether appropriate repairs and preventive measures were undertaken. Failing to act or neglecting damaged pipes could be seen as general wear, which might not be covered under your access cover.
What Does Trace and Access Cover Include?
A trace and access cover typically applies to the costs of:
Detecting the source of the leak
Accessing hidden leaks through walls, ceilings, or floors
Using advanced leak detection techniques like thermal imaging, tracer gas, or acoustic sensors
Hiring a specialist trace or access company
Providing a detailed report for your insurance claim
It does not always cover the actual repair of the leak, so it’s worth checking your insurance policy wording. For authoritative advice, refer to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) guide.
Your insurer may or may not cover trace and access insurance more than once. Some insurance providers might set cover limits or increase your policy excess after several claims.
Does Home Insurance Cover Trace and Access Multiple Times?
Most home insurance providers include trace and access cover under a standard buildings insurance policy. This includes access to:
Underground pipes
Burst pipes
Leaks in or under flooring
Leaks through private land
The home insurance cover trace and access feature is not always automatic. Some insurance companies treat it as an add-on, similar to home emergency cover. If you’ve used it once, the insurer may:
Ask if approved plumbers or engineers carried out the repairs
Require evidence that the issue was fully resolved
Increase your premium if similar problems persist
Learn more about limitations and add-ons from this Which? article on home insurance cover.
How to Make a Second (or Third) Claim
The claims process for multiple trace and access claims is similar to your first claim. Here’s a quick guide:
Act quickly: As soon as you spot a damp patch, water damage, or unusually high water bills, shut off your water supply and contact your insurance company.
Provide your policy number: This helps the insurer track prior claims.
Request confirmation: Ask whether you’re still eligible under your current access cover.
Hire an access company: Use access leak detection specialists such as 0800 Homefix for advanced diagnostics and detailed reporting.
Submit evidence: Include photographs, expert assessments, and all receipts.
Follow up: Stay in touch throughout the process and document all communication.
Will My Insurer Penalise Me for Repeat Claims?
Multiple trace and access insurance claims can affect your insurance cover. Some insurance firms may:
Increase your premium
Add restrictions to your policy
Require a higher excess
Refuse cover if the damage caused is frequent and preventable
Always read the fine print to understand your cover vary conditions. For example, if your home insurance policy only covers trace and access up to £5,000 per claim, then submitting frequent claims could exceed your total cover limits.
In extreme cases, an insurer may view repeated claims as signs of poor maintenance. If they believe the damage was damaged intentionally or due to general wear, they may reject your claim.
The Financial Ombudsman offers additional guidance on disputing rejected or limited insurance claims.
What About Different Leak Locations?
If one leak is from the central heating system and another is from your toilets taps or kitchen plumbing, these are considered separate events. Access included usually applies as long as each trace and access claim involves a unique and qualifying leak.
Leaks through neighbouring property might be more complex. If your neighbour’s issue leads to water ingress on your property, you’ll need both insurers involved to determine liability and compensation.
What’s Not Covered If You Claim Again?
Repeat claims might be limited to:
Trace costs only, not repair
Leaks that occur within a short time after your first claim
Leaks in areas previously reported but not repaired
Plumbing systems deemed in bad condition
Most policies do not cover:
Leaks damaged intentionally
Leaks due to long-standing general wear
Leaks on public property or mains not owned by you
It’s also important to note that if escape of water is covered separately from trace and access, the policy may only pay for one or the other depending on the situation.
How 0800 Homefix Helps You Claim Again
If you’re eligible to submit another trace and access claim, 0800 Homefix will:
Conduct expert inspections using advanced equipment
Offer non-invasive leak detection where possible
Provide a written report detailing the leak’s source
Communicate with your insurance company
Support you in gathering all documentation to make the claims process seamless
Our approved plumbers, heating engineers, and access experts are skilled at managing multiple claims with minimal disruption.
We’ve helped clients across the UK claim successfully for more than one water leak, often under challenging circumstances like leaks from underground pipes covered by complex policies.
Final Thoughts: Can I Claim for Trace and Access Twice or More?
Yes-but your success depends on having a valid insurance policy, acting fast, and using professional services like 0800 Homefix to prove that each leak is a separate insurable event.
To stay in your insurer’s good books:
Maintain your plumbing in good state
Don’t ignore early warning signs
Avoid unnecessary delays
Repeat trace and access cover is not guaranteed-but it’s possible with preparation and the right team on your side.
Ready to discuss your next trace and access insurance claim? Contact us today and get the best possible service with guaranteed professionalism from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim for trace and access multiple times?
Do all insurance policies include trace and access?
What’s the difference between trace and access and escape of water?
Will I have to pay upfront for repeat claims?
How do I know if underground pipes are covered?
What documents should I submit for a repeat claim?
Who should I call first?
Spotted Any of These Warning Signs?
Our leak detection specialists cover London and the South East using acoustic detection, thermal imaging and moisture meters — no unnecessary damage, full written report, available 7 days a week.
Editorial note: This article is intended as a general homeowner guide. All plumbing work on supply pipes should be carried out by a qualified, WaterSafe-registered plumber. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the property immediately and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
