United Utilities issued the warning on 9 January 2025, saying the cold snap across the North West was continuing and that sub-zero temperatures can cause pipework to freeze, with the thaw putting strain on pipes and causing leaks or, in some instances, water bursts1. The company asked residents and business owners to check pipes and insulate them ahead of the freeze thaw this weekend, under a four-point prompt it calls PIPE: Prepare, Insulate, Protect, Easy1.
The company said the best way to avoid a plumbing burst is to insulate pipes, wrapping them with lagging. It said particular attention should go to pipes in cold areas such as a garage, cellar or outside the property, as these are most likely to freeze when the temperature drops, and that pipes in loft spaces are also susceptible and would benefit from their own insulation "duvet" to stop the thaw causing problems1. It added that burst and leaking pipes can damage homes and businesses, and that flooding from burst pipes can be distressing as well as costly and time-consuming to repair1.
Its other checks were knowing where the stop tap is, having a plumber's contact details to hand (it points to watersafe.org.uk to find one locally), and checking for household leaks regularly so a small problem does not become a larger one1. For a burst pipe, the company's advice is to find the stop tap, usually under the kitchen sink, and turn it clockwise to turn off the water; turn off the heating and open all taps to drain the system quickly; soak up escaping water with towels; check with the home insurance company whether leaks and bursts are covered, or call a plumber; and, if water has leaked near electrics, switch them off at the mains1.
"As the cold snap continues across the North West, water company United Utilities is warning residents and business owners to check pipes and insulate them ahead of the freeze thaw this weekend"
Why it matters for households
The warning covers households and business owners across the North West, and the risk period is the thaw expected this weekend, when frozen pipework can come under strain1. The practical consequences set out by the company are leaks or bursts that can flood a home and cause damage that is costly and time-consuming to repair1. Its advice is to lag pipes, including those in garages, cellars, outside the property and in lofts; to know the location of the stop tap; to keep a plumber's contact details; and to check regularly for leaks1. For a burst, its stated steps are to turn off the water at the stop tap, turn off the heating, open all taps to drain the system, soak up water with towels, check insurance cover or call a plumber, and switch off electrics at the mains if water has leaked near them1. Households can join the company's priority services register for support, it says1. Our guides on getting your home ready for cold weather and ice and on frozen pipes and thawing them safely cover the same ground.
What happens next
The freeze thaw is expected this weekend, with no further dates given1. United Utilities directs households to its winter pages at unitedutilities.com/winter for more on preparing for and dealing with frozen pipes1.
Winter Home Preparation
Frozen Pipes Thawing
