Common but ‘completely avoidable’ issue can flood your home in 24 hours. Check this before Easter

Five months on and the 79-year-old has had to replace light fittings and flooring in his upstairs bathroom.

It’s not an unique occurrence, with a peak insurance body telling 9News that burst flexi-hoses are a very “common issue”.

Flexi-hoses are often in bathrooms, and under sinks in the kitchen and laundry.

They are a common style of plumbing fitting which are used to connect water to taps and fixtures.

Bursting happens when they have rusted up, and are at the end of their working life.

According to insurance company Suncorp, burst flexi pipes account for one in 10 of their water claims.

“Burst flexi-hoses are unfortunately common, but they don’t have to be,” Suncorp Insurance Head of Home Claims Steven Hussey said.

“In most cases, a burst flexi-hose and damage caused by them is completely avoidable.

“Most flexi-hoses burst due to the breakdown of the external braiding material due to rust and corrosion or the effects of twisting, kinking or stretching – things that can all be monitored and prevented with ongoing care and maintenance.”

Hussey warned that 24 hours is all it takes for a burst pipe to flood a home.

He said most claims also occur when people are on holidays, like at Easter time.

“As part of most insurance policies home owners have to keep home in working order, and make sure fittings aren’t showing signs of wear and tear,” he said.