Plumbing, Bathroom & Water Advice for Tenants

This page explains how to deal with common plumbing issues in Cardiff, including leaks, blocked sinks, toilets and water supply problems. Many issues can be resolved quickly by following the guidance below before reporting a fault.

If you are experiencing plumbing issues in Cardiff, there are a number of simple checks you can carry out before reporting the problem. Common issues include blocked sinks, leaking pipes, toilets not flushing and problems with water supply.

Before reporting the issue, please follow the guidance below. If the problem involves a leak, no water supply, or ongoing bathroom plumbing problems, please contact us as soon as possible

Plumbing issues in Cardiff rental property including leaks, blocked sinks and bathroom problems

Identify the Issue

Plumbing issues can appear in different ways, including leaking pipes, blocked sinks, toilets not flushing or no water supply. Identifying the type of issue will help determine the cause and next steps.

What You Can Do First

Many plumbing problems can be resolved by clearing simple blockages, checking visible pipework and using basic tools such as a plunger. Acting early can often prevent a minor issue from becoming more serious.

Common Causes

Plumbing issues are often caused by blockages from food waste, grease or hair, general wear and tear, or accidental damage. Cold weather can also lead to frozen or burst pipes

When to Contact Us

You should contact us if there is a leak, no water supply, persistent blockage or any issue that cannot be resolved with basic steps. Urgent issues such as flooding or burst pipes should be reported immediately.

How to Troubleshoot Plumbing Issues

Leaking Pipes

If you notice leaking pipes in your property, turn off the water supply at the stopcock if possible and try to contain the leak using towels or a container. Leaking pipes in rental properties should be reported as soon as possible to prevent damage.

Blocked Sinks & Drains

Blocked sinks are one of the most common plumbing issues Cardiff tenants experience. Try using a plunger or a suitable drain cleaner to remove the blockage. Avoid pouring grease, food or debris down the sink.

Toilet Not Flushing or Blocked

If your toilet is blocked, avoid repeated flushing as this can cause overflow. A plunger can often resolve the issue. Persistent toilet blockages should be reported

No Water Supply

If you have no water in your property, check if the issue is affecting neighbouring properties. This may indicate a wider supply issue. If the issue is isolated to your property, report it.

Bathroom Plumbing Problems

Bathroom plumbing problems in Cardiff homes can include slow drainage, leaks around sinks or baths, or issues with showers. Identifying where the issue is coming from can help resolve it more quickly.

Common Plumbing Problems

Blocked Sink

Often caused by food waste, grease or debris building up in the pipes. Regular cleaning and proper disposal of waste can help prevent this.

Leaking Pipes

Leaks may occur under sinks, behind appliances or within visible pipework. Even small leaks should be taken seriously as they can cause long-term damage.

Toilet Blockages

Blockages are often caused by excessive paper use or unsuitable items being flushed. Only toilet paper should be flushed.

Low or No Water Pressure

This may be caused by supply issues, internal plumbing faults or blockages. Check whether the issue is affecting the whole property.

Burst or Frozen Pipes

During cold weather, pipes can freeze and potentially burst, leading to serious water damage. Keeping heating on low can help prevent this.

Emergency Water Leak – What To Do

If you have a leak or burst pipe, follow these steps immediately:

  • Turn off the water supply: Locate the stopcock (usually under the sink) and turn it off to stop the flow of water.
  • Contain the leak: Use a bowl, bucket or old towels to catch dripping water and prevent damage.
  • Move belongings: Move any furniture, electrical items or valuables away from the affected area.
  • Turn off electrics if needed: If water is near sockets, lights or electrical fittings, switch off power at the fuse board if it is safe to do so.
  • Report the issue immediately: Contact us as soon as possible, especially if the leak is ongoing or severe.

Winter Pipe Care & Preventing Frozen Pipes

During colder months, pipes can freeze and potentially burst, leading to serious water damage. Taking simple precautions can help prevent plumbing issues in Cardiff properties during winter.

  • Keep heating on low: Maintain a consistent background temperature, especially during cold weather.
  • Do not leave the property unheated: If you are away, leave heating on a low setting to prevent pipes freezing.
  • Allow air to circulate: Keep internal doors open and allow warm air to reach pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Open loft access if needed: In some properties, allowing warm air into loft spaces can help prevent freezing.
  • Report any issues early: If you suspect a pipe is frozen or at risk, contact us before it becomes a burst pipe.

Water & Electrical Safety

Water and electricity can be extremely dangerous when combined. If you notice water near electrical fittings, take extra care and follow the guidance below.

  • Do not touch electrics: Avoid touching switches, sockets or fittings if water is present.
  • Turn off power if safe: Switch off electricity at the fuse board if you can do so safely.
  • Stay clear of affected areas: Keep away from any area where water is leaking through lights, ceilings or walls.
  • Do not use appliances: Avoid using electrical appliances near the affected area.
  • Report immediately: This is a serious safety issue and should be reported as soon as possible.

Tenant Responsibility

Tenants are responsible for taking reasonable care of plumbing systems within the property, including avoiding blockages, using fixtures correctly and reporting issues promptly.

Where issues are caused by misuse, such as blocked sinks from food waste or inappropriate items being flushed, charges may apply. Any leaks, water supply issues or suspected faults should be reported as soon as possible.

Still having this issue?

If the problem has not been resolved after following the steps above, please report it to us with as much detail as possible. Include where the issue is located, whether there is a leak or blockage, and when the problem started.

Uploading photos where possible will help us assess the issue more quickly.

More Help Guides

Useful Advice & Support (Plumbing Issues)

If you need further guidance on plumbing problems, water supply or dealing with leaks, the following resources may be helpful:

  • Consumer Council for Water – Independent advice on water supply, billing and consumer rights in England and Wales.
  • Ofwat – Water Regulator – Information about water companies, supply issues and your rights as a customer.
  • Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water – Local water supplier for Cardiff. Check supply issues, outages and advice on leaks.
  • Water UK – General advice on water use, plumbing issues and preventing problems in your home.
  • Shelter Cymru – Housing advice for tenants in Wales, including responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.