You spot it. We'll stop it.

We'd like to say a big thank you to our customers who have reported leaks when they've been out and about. 
Please keep up the great work by reporting leaks online.  We're doing all that we can with every available member of staff working around the clock to respond to leaks and bursts.  Our experienced call handlers, specialist leak detection teams and pipe repair contractors are all on hand to stop leaks and repair bursts.

Leaks in the street or road

After the freezing weather the number of leaks and bursts increase as the temperatures rise.

Underground pipes are protected from the frost by their depth, but when the surrounding ground thaws out this can cause the ground to move, putting pressure on pipe joints and causing bursts.

If you spot a leak outside on the road or footpath, please let us know by completing the online form or call us on Freefone 0800 330033.

Why should I report it?

We're working hard to reduce leakage throughout the North West to save essential water resources and to keep your taps flowing. Your help in reporting these leaks is essential and will help to maintain your water supply.

If you spot a leak or burst pipe on a street or pavement, the pipe probably belongs to us.  Please don't assume that we know about it or that someone else will have reported it, we're very grateful to anyone that reports a leak.

What happens when I report a leak?

• We will send out an inspector to assess the problem who will inspect the leak and recommend what action needs to be taken.
• Our normal timescales to check possible leaks are, the same day, within two days, or within one week.
• If the water is found to be coming from a pipe or fitting for which United Utilities is responsible for, we will arrange for our contract partners to repair it.
• The speed repairs are carried out, depends on the severity and the location of the leak. Sometimes we have to delay our repairs in line with local council laws concerning digging in the roadway, for example opening notices, road closures or traffic diversions, but we always try to repair the leak as quickly as possible to prevent wastage of water and inconvenience to our customers.
• There are times when the water showing is not from United Utilities equipment, such as from a broken drain or from groundwater that occurs naturally from rainwater or underground sources. If this is the case, we will advise you on who to contact to investigate the problem, should you wish to take the matter further.

Leaks at your home

Problems can start if pipework in homes or commercial premises has frozen during the cold weather, particularly if the building has been unoccupied for some time.  Frozen water expands, cracks the pipes, but the problem does not reveal itself until the pipes thaw and the water starts to escape.

If the leak is in your home, outside your home but within your property boundary or in another location within your property this will be the responsibility of the homeowner.
For more information about leaks and protecting your home, please visit:

• More information on leaks
• Bursts on your water supply pipe
• Winter weather advice
• Be prepared for home emergencies with HomeServe