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Consider a scenario where damp patches appear on a ceiling or a musty smell signals a water leak in a property. Identifying the leak’s source might require lifting floors or cutting into walls—an expensive task. This is where trace and access cover becomes relevant, a feature found in many home insurance policies that covers the cost of locating and reaching a water leak. But is trace and access cover worth it? Does it provide financial benefits, or is it an unnecessary addition to an insurance policy? This blog examines the advantages, limitations, and practical value of trace and access insurance for 0800 Homefix staff, offering relevant information to assess its worth for homeowners.
What Is Trace and Access Insurance?
Trace and access insurance is a component of buildings insurance policy that covers the cost of finding and accessing a water leak within a home. “Trace” refers to locating the source of the leak, often using specialist equipment like thermal cameras or acoustic detectors, while “access” involves exposing it—such as lifting tiles, cutting plaster, or digging up underground pipes on private land. This is sometimes termed access cover trace or cover trace. The UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) indicates that water issues rank among common household maintenance concerns, with leaks often increasing costs if not addressed promptly. Unlike home emergency cover, trace and access does not include repairing the leak or fixing water damage; it focuses solely on the initial investigative steps.
For instance, if a burst pipe leaks beneath a lounge floor, detecting and exposing it might cost £300–£600 without cover. With trace and access cover, the insurance company handles this expense. This access insurance may appear beneficial, but its value depends on various factors, which this blog explores.
The Case For Trace and Access Cover
Trace and access cover offers several potential benefits:
Saves on Upfront Costs
Locating a hidden leaking pipe or damaged pipes can be costly. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) states that professional leak detection and access using specialist equipment can range from £200 to over £1,000, depending on the complexity—such as cutting into walls or excavating underground pipes covered by the policy. Trace and access cover eliminates this pay upfront burden, provided the cover limits—typically £5,000–£10,000 in most buildings insurance policies—meet the cost. Some policies even offer unlimited cover, though this can vary.Speeds Up the Fix
Without access cover, homeowners might delay a trace and access claim to avoid costs, allowing water damage to escalate—potentially causing mould or structural issues. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) notes that unchecked leaks can significantly increase repair expenses over time. Trace and access ensures an emergency plumber or heating engineer can act quickly, reducing further damage.Handles Complex Jobs
Leaks in difficult locations—like underground pipes, behind walls, or under concrete slabs—require advanced tools and skills. Our team at 0800 Homefix employ infrared scans and other specialist equipment to address these, and trace and access insurance ensures clients aren’t left paying for this effort.Peace of Mind
Home insurance cover trace provides assurance against unexpected detection costs. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlights that unforeseen home repair expenses are a common concern for UK households, and trace and access cover mitigates this worry by covering the first signs of a leak.
For example, a couple noticed a musty smell and damp patches in their bedroom ceiling. Their £5,000 trace and access cover paid £450 for an approved plumber to trace a loft pipe leak and access it through plaster. The repair was a separate cost, but the initial expense was covered.
The Case Against It
However, trace and access cover has limitations:
Limited Scope
It covers only the cost of finding and reaching the leak—not repairing it or addressing damage caused, such as water damage to walls or floors. If a home insurance policy lacks “escape of water” cover, additional costs remain. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) notes that misinterpreting policy wording on cover limits often confuses homeowners during an access claim.Not Always Included
In some insurance policies, trace and access is an optional extra—costing £20–£50 annually—while others offer low cover limits (e.g., £2,000). Basic plans may exclude it entirely, requiring clients to confirm with their home insurer or insurance provider.Exclusions Apply
Leaks from general wear, such as corroded pipes, are often not an insurable event—policies typically require a sudden incident like a burst pipe. Homes with neglected maintenance might not benefit, leaving owners to pay for a specialist trace.Rare Use for Some
New builds with modern plumbing may rarely need an access claim. For low-risk properties, paying for cover trace and access might not be justified if leaks are unlikely.
For instance, a homeowner’s slow leak from a rusty pipe wasn’t covered—trace and access didn’t apply to “maintenance issues.” They paid £700 to locate and repair it themselves.
When Is Trace and Access Cover Worth It?
The value of trace and access depends on specific circumstances:
Older Homes: Pre-1980s properties with aging pipes are more prone to leaks, making access insurance a practical choice. Most buildings insurance policies include this for such cases.
Complex Layouts: Multi-storey homes or properties with underground pipes covered under the policy—such as those under driveways—benefit from higher detection costs being offset.
Tight Budgets: For those where £500 upfront would strain finances, cover limits provide relief.
Low-Risk Homes: New builds or flats with minimal plumbing might not need it beyond basic home insurance trace.
The BRE suggests homes over 20 years old experience 30% more water issues, indicating age as a key factor. Reviewing a property’s leak history and condition offers relevant information on its worth.
How Much Does It Cost?
If trace and access isn’t standard in a home insurance policy, adding it as an optional extra might cost £20–£50 per year, depending on the insurance company and cover limits. Compared to a £400 trace and access job, using it once in a decade offsets the expense. When bundled in a buildings insurance policy, it incurs no additional cost.
How 0800 Homefix Fits In
Regardless of whether trace and access cover is in place, water leaks require attention. Our Trace & Access services at 0800 Homefix utilise professional tools—like acoustic detectors and heat scans—to locate a leak’s source quickly and access it efficiently. If covered, we coordinate with the insurance provider to ensure a smooth trace and access claim. Without cover, we offer competitive pricing and reliable service. Contacting the home insurer beforehand confirms that costs align with the policy wording.
Should You Recommend It?
Consider these points when advising clients:
Policy Check: Is trace and access included in their home insurance? What are the cover limits?
Home Insurance Cover Trace: Verify if their insurance policy includes this, as it impacts claim costs for leaks.
Home Age: Properties over 20 years old may benefit more.
Risk Tolerance: Clients averse to surprise costs might value it.
Leak History: Past issues suggest future relevance.
Closing Insights
Is trace and access cover worth it? It can significantly reduce upfront costs and accelerate fixes for hidden leaks—like those in underground pipes or walls—but it doesn’t cover everything, such as repairing toilets, taps, or damaged intentionally items. Assess the property’s characteristics, budget, and insurance cover details. If clients are unsure about a leak’s source, 0800 Homefix’s Water Leak Detection Services can assist, whether covered or not. Understanding how to initiate a trace and access claim and confirming insurance coverage with the water company or insurer is essential. For some, this access cover offers valuable peace of mind.