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Allianz has reported a 44% year on year leap in domestic water damage claims.

Allianz’s research reveals that the top four sources of water damage in the home are feeder pipes (39%), baths or showers (11%), toilets (9%) and radiators (6%).

Allianz’s head of home management Gareth McChesney said: “It is difficult to know why we are seeing this sudden increase in the number of claims but we recommend that all water connections should be inspected regularly to ensure they are not corroding. Also, if in doubt about a DIY job, using a professional could be a lot less stressful and less costly in the long-run.”

He estimated that water damage accounted for around 30% of Allianz’s household claims.

The research also found that kitchens, main bathrooms, lounges and main bedroom were the most likely rooms to be damaged as a result of internal water damage are:.

According to Allianz, the most expensive claims are those caused by open pipes not concealed or contained in a wall cavity, which work out an average of £7,547 - around £4,000 higher than the norm.