Liability when installing tap
When installing a new tap in a domestic property, should a plumber check if a backflow prevention device is required? Even if there was no backflow prevention device in the property prior to the installation, and the plumber has just been asked by the customer to complete a like-for-like installation?
Context: my plumber installed a new tap and it caused a backflow incident for all my neighbours and my entire apartment block. But is the plumber liable, or is the block liable for not installing backflow prevention devices (either at the system or in individual flats, which is technically required by the Water Supply 1999 England/Wales regulations)?
2 Answers
Yes, when installing a new tap in a domestic property, it is advisable for a plumber to check if a backflow prevention device is needed.
Determining liability in this situation involves considering several factors. The plumber may bear responsibility if they failed to follow appropriate regulations and guidelines for backflow prevention during the tap installation. However, the apartment block could also share liability if it did not have adequate backflow prevention measures in place, as required by regulations.
The Water Supply Regulations of 1999 in England and Wales typically require the installation of backflow prevention devices to safeguard the water supply. If these regulations were not adhered to, it could contribute to the incident.
In such cases, it is recommended to consult with legal professionals who can assess the specific details and responsibilities involved. They can provide guidance on liability and potential recourse for any damages incurred.
Determining liability in this situation involves considering several factors. The plumber may bear responsibility if they failed to follow appropriate regulations and guidelines for backflow prevention during the tap installation. However, the apartment block could also share liability if it did not have adequate backflow prevention measures in place, as required by regulations.
The Water Supply Regulations of 1999 in England and Wales typically require the installation of backflow prevention devices to safeguard the water supply. If these regulations were not adhered to, it could contribute to the incident.
In such cases, it is recommended to consult with legal professionals who can assess the specific details and responsibilities involved. They can provide guidance on liability and potential recourse for any damages incurred.
4th Jan 2024
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Outside garden taps should have one any tap being used with hose attachments shower attachments really any tap or water outlet that has or will have or potentially have an attachment that can fall below the waterline
Outside taps
Bath taps
Showers with shower hose that is long enough to become submerged
I can see situations where any outlet could have backflow filing a bucket with water in a sink and the fill line is above the clearance of the taps
Definitely baths,toilets and showers sinks and basins its a good idea and outside taps I think the plumber just didn't think about it
What happened to cause the issue what tap was it you don't say that would make a difference on weather he was incompetent or just not mindful of potential issues!!! And he may have assumed there was adequate prevention in place again yes he should have checked but not all do!?
And it really depends on how the issue came about if it was an outside tap plumber could be at fault a shower with an obvious backflow risk plumber a bath 50/50 but a kitchen sink thats hard to judge the blame and how the water got high enough to backflow is really the question if it was not an outside tap shower bath or toilet and to cause extensive issues in other flats how long was the water backflowing? I need more info to make a proper assessment
Outside taps
Bath taps
Showers with shower hose that is long enough to become submerged
I can see situations where any outlet could have backflow filing a bucket with water in a sink and the fill line is above the clearance of the taps
Definitely baths,toilets and showers sinks and basins its a good idea and outside taps I think the plumber just didn't think about it
What happened to cause the issue what tap was it you don't say that would make a difference on weather he was incompetent or just not mindful of potential issues!!! And he may have assumed there was adequate prevention in place again yes he should have checked but not all do!?
And it really depends on how the issue came about if it was an outside tap plumber could be at fault a shower with an obvious backflow risk plumber a bath 50/50 but a kitchen sink thats hard to judge the blame and how the water got high enough to backflow is really the question if it was not an outside tap shower bath or toilet and to cause extensive issues in other flats how long was the water backflowing? I need more info to make a proper assessment
4th Mar 2024
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