UK homeowners urged to make 1 key check before holidays to avoid 'disaster'

There's one thing almost all Brits ignore before leaving for their holidays, which can result in a disaster when they return, a plumbing expert has claimed. With the summer holidays around the corner, millions of holidaymakers will be preparing to hop on a plane and escape for a week or two in the sun.

All the time spent planning and buying for these upcoming getaways can often take your mind away from the mounting issues at home. According to MyBuilder.com, an online platform to source tradespeople across the UK, returning from holiday to a plumbing disaster is "unfortunately a commonplace occurrence and in most cases can be avoided by following a few simple tips."

There's one thing Brits should do before going on holiday, plumbing expert Mike Flook says, and that's making one key check well in advance to spot any potential problems, allowing for time to fix them before jetting away.

Mike said one big thing homeowners need to look out for is leaks.

"Going on holiday is meant to be a relaxing experience, and the last thing you need is to return to a big leak or plumbing disaster," Mike explained.

"The issue with plumbing problems is that what starts off as relatively minor can cause a whole host of serious problems if it's not resolved promptly."

Radiators are a common source of leaks, water spilling from your radiator, and damp or discoloured patches in nearby walls, floors or ceilings are telltale signs of a leak.

Mike adds: "Checking for leaks, making sure your taps and shower heads are all fully switched off, and ensuring no drains are blocked are all easy and quick checks to make.

"Ultimately, the safest way to ensure you won't come back to any plumbing disasters is to switch your water off, so that's worth considering, especially if you are going away for several weeks."

The aforementioned signs are clear indicators of plumbing issues, such as a damaged valve, which requires immediate fixing before becoming much worse.

If left unfixed while you're away, water build-up in your walls or ceilings could lead to weakening and eventually caving in.

Checking for drain blockage during summer months, switching off your kitchen appliances before leaving and checking for toilet leaks are other overlooked steps before going away.

To avoid water leaks, experts suggest switching off your home's water supply before leaving. This is done by turning the valve typically found under your kitchen sink clockwise.

You should also practice giving a key to someone you trust so that they can check your home when and report back to you if they spot an issue.