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Cut Escape of Water claims by over 80% with Quensus AAFMS leak detection. UK insurer-approved, JCOP-compliant, and backed by nationwide support.
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Escape of Water remains one of the most frequent and costly causes of property damage across the UK built environment. From residential developments and commercial estates to construction projects and high-value assets, water incidents can lead to major repair costs, operational disruption, insurance claims, reputational impact, and long-term premium increases.
While insurers traditionally focus on claims handling and recovery, the industry is increasingly shifting toward prevention. Modern monitoring, intelligent analytics, and automatic shut-off technologies now allow organisations to manage water risk proactively rather than reacting after damage has already occurred.
Understanding Escape of Water properly is the first step toward avoiding it.
Escape of Water claims represent one of the largest categories of property insurance losses. The financial impact extends far beyond the cost of the water itself.
Typical consequences include:
For insurers, reducing claim frequency and severity is a priority. For property owners, developers, and facilities teams, the goal is increasingly to prevent claims altogether.
You can learn more about the costs of leaks here.
Escape of Water mitigation refers to the proactive steps taken to prevent, detect, and minimise water damage before it escalates into a costly insurance claim. For insurers, effective mitigation delivers clear benefits:
As a result, UK insurers increasingly view Active Automatic Flow Monitoring and Shut-Off (AAFMS) systems as essential risk-management infrastructure. In many cases, their installation can lead to preferential policy terms, reduced deductibles, and improved renewal outcomes.
Historically, water damage was treated as unavoidable. Today, insurers, developers, contractors, and facilities managers are prioritising proactive risk mitigation.
Key drivers include:
As a result, Active Automatic Flow Monitoring and Shut-Off (AAFMS) systems are increasingly viewed as essential infrastructure rather than optional upgrades.
Quensus AAFMS solutions are designed to meet and exceed insurer expectations and key industry standards, including the Joint Code of Practice (JCOP) for Escape of Water Prevention and Management on Construction Sites, frequently referenced within underwriting manuals.
When an incident does occur, AAFMS devices provide remote telemetry and system records, allowing insurers and loss adjusters to access real-time flow data and shut-off history. This capability:
The result is faster settlements, lower loss-adjuster costs, and improved customer satisfaction.
Advanced analytics from AAFMS systems also support insurers by enabling:
Our focus is on the return on investment of leak prevention.
Reactive approaches deal with damage after it has occurred. Proactive prevention avoids the claim entirely - a far more valuable outcome for insurers and policyholders alike.
As engineering specialists and researchers, we conduct ongoing analysis to ensure our systems respond to evolving industry risks. We have developed a detailed, interactive assessment demonstrating how LeakNet mitigates Escape of Water risk in real-world environments.
This analysis enables insurers to quantify:
Click here to view our EoW claim and water damage analysis.
As an official Specialist Partner of Aviva Risk Management Solutions, Quensus works closely with insurers, developers, contractors, and facilities teams to deliver measurable reductions in Escape of Water exposure. The objective is not simply to detect leaks after damage occurs, but to actively reduce claim frequency, limit severity, and provide insurers with clearer visibility over real-world risk conditions.
For insurers, this translates into stronger underwriting confidence. Intelligent monitoring and automatic shut-off capability allow water systems to be treated as a managed operational risk rather than an unpredictable claims category. Telemetry, event logging, and usage data provide evidence of active risk control, helping insurers assess exposure more accurately and respond more effectively when incidents occur.
For policyholders and asset owners, the benefits are equally practical. Proactive monitoring helps identify abnormal consumption early, limit escalation where automatic isolation is configured, and reduce the operational disruption that often accompanies water incidents. This supports business continuity, protects asset value, and can contribute to more stable insurance outcomes over time.
Quensus also supports the wider ecosystem around Escape of Water prevention. This includes specification guidance during design stages, collaboration with contractors and consultants during installation, and ongoing operational support through training, SOP development, and maintenance planning. These measures ensure systems are not only installed correctly but continue delivering measurable risk reduction throughout their lifecycle.
Ultimately, the value of AAFMS solutions lies in shifting the conversation from reactive claims handling to proactive risk management. Insurers gain better data, improved predictability, and reduced loss exposure, while clients benefit from fewer incidents, lower disruption, and stronger long-term resilience against one of the property sector’s most persistent risks.
Escape of Water remains one of the most expensive categories of property damage:
With Quensus Automatic Flow Monitoring and Smart Shut-Off Valves installed, the risk drops to approximately 1 in 10 sites, delivering over 80% reduction in claims through early detection and rapid isolation.
Learn More about Financial Benefits for Construction
Our engineers work directly with specifiers to design optimal leak-prevention strategies that balance budget constraints with insurer risk requirements. This includes:
These materials support underwriting approval and can help secure reduced premiums and deductibles.
We assist contractors in meeting insurer and industry obligations to produce a Water Management Plan, as recommended by CIREG and insurer policies.
Our templates address design standards, installation quality, and emergency response procedures - enabling underwriters to approve plans without delay.
Our nationwide installer network ensures expert coverage across the UK. We offer CPD training for plumbers, electricians and specialist installers.
As solution developers, we’ve designed installation to be straightforward and low risk. All work is in compliance with the Water Supply Regulations 1999, BS EN 806, BESA Good Practice Guides, CIBSE standards, and CIPHE plumbing engineering design guide.
Installers are fully qualified with Level 3 NVQs, valid CSCS cards, and CIPHE affiliation, meeting insurer underwriting standard.
Quensus engineers professionally commission leak detection systems to meet precise design and compliance requirements across any site, building type and level of protection needed.
With extensive experience on large-scale developments, we work seamlessly with other contractors and estates teams to ensure smooth delivery.
The benefit of having Quensus do the commissioning is you have the best people for the job. We provide commissioning certificates that major underwriters already accept as proof of compliant system specification, installation, and configuration.
Technology alone cannot prevent disruption - people and processes matter.
Quensus provides tailored training, clear Standard Operating Procedures, and full documentation so responsible personnel know exactly how to respond to alerts. Training logs are supplied to insurers to support audits and broker reviews.
We also offer ongoing maintenance contracts, ensuring systems remain operational, staff remain trained, and device failure risk is reduced by over 95% - virtually eliminating false-alarm claims and reducing exposure at renewal.
Unlock insurer-approved leak detection solutions that improve underwriting confidence. Quensus delivers insurer-approved, compliant leak-prevention solutions that reduce claims, improve underwriting confidence, and protect long-term asset value.
Explore our use cases and discover how Quensus can help you deliver smarter, compliant, and lower-risk developments.
Our product range consistently outperform other leak-detection technologies. Compare LeakNet with a feature-by-feature breakdown proving our superior performance
Choosing the right system can be complex, but our expert team is here to help.
Up to 7 credits for reducing water usage per person per day compared against a baseline performance. For example, use water-saving WCs, tap aerators, low-flow showers, waterless urinals, and greywater/rainwater for recycling non-potable water.
Our expertise in smart water metering and data analytics allows us to monitor and analyse water consumption patterns, providing valuable insights to identify water-saving opportunities and track progress towards reduction targets.
Installing our device on the main meter earns you 4 points.
Sub-metering building areas consuming 10% or more of the building's total water demand, or metering multi-tenant buildings per tenanted area, achieves an additional 2 credits.
Up to 4 credits (each) are available based on the water efficiency of the following assets to reduce overall water consumption in the building:
WAT02 - Water-efficient equipment: toilets
WAT03 - Water-efficient equipment: urinals
WAT04 - Water-efficient equipment: hand washing basins
WAT05 - Water-efficient equipment: showers
WAT06 - Water-efficient equipment: white goods
Our experience in specifying and installing water-efficient fixtures can help building owners select and implement the most appropriate solutions to achieve significant water savings.
Up to 4 credits for installing a robust leak detection system, which plays a vital role in conserving water resources. By promptly identifying and addressing leaks, buildings can significantly reduce water wastage, contributing to a more sustainable water footprint. 1 credit has traditionally been given for a leak detection system that can detect a major water leak on the mains water supply within the building and/or between the building and the utilities water meter.
Our advanced leak detection technology, including smart metering and real-time monitoring, can quickly identify and locate leaks, enabling prompt repairs and minimising water wastage, potentially enabling you to achieve the full 4 credits after a complete calendar year.
Up to 4 credits for proactive measures to prevent leaks. Proper installation and maintenance of flow control devices, whether in sanitary fittings or larger residential complexes, are essential for minimising water loss and ensuring the longevity of plumbing systems.
Our LeakNet system goes beyond traditional leak prevention methods. With AI-powered monitoring, real-time alerts, and automatic shut-off capabilities, LeakNet actively identifies and stops leaks before they cause significant damage or water wastage. This proactive approach aligns perfectly with the BREEAM focus on minimising water loss and ensuring the longevity of plumbing systems.
Up to 4 credits can be awarded depending on the extent and effectiveness of the isolation valve strategy within the building's water supply system, which allows controlled shut-off of specific sections of the water supply, enabling targeted maintenance or repairs without disrupting the entire system. 1 credit has traditionally been given for installing a flow control device to each WC area/facility so that water is only supplied when needed.
Our smart shut-off valves seamlessly integrate into any plumbing system, providing the isolation capabilities necessary for targeted maintenance and repairs.
This not only meets the traditional BREEAM requirement for isolation valves but also enhances it with intelligent control and automation.
By enabling quick and precise shut-off of specific sections, LeakNet minimises disruption and water wastage during maintenance activities, maximising the potential for achieving up to 4 credits.
The automatic shut-off functionality also serves as an innovative flow control device, securing an additional credit for controlling water supply to WC areas.
Up to 4 credits for using alternative water sources and efficient water-using technologies. Rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and the use of water-efficient fixtures are examples of strategies that can substantially decrease reliance on mains water supply.
While we don't directly address alternative water sources, LeakNet's ability to dramatically reduce water wastage through automatic shutoff and leak prevention contributes to lowering mains water consumption.
By minimising unnecessary water loss, LeakNet supports the overarching goal of WAT10, contributing to achieving the maximum credits available.
Up to 4 credits for accurate monitoring and reporting of water consumption data, which is fundamental to effective water management. By tracking consumption patterns, building owners and operators can identify areas for improvement and implement targeted water-saving measures. This will include internal sub-meters to monitor the impacts of inefficiencies and leakage and encourage more effective water management.
Our smart metering and data analytics capabilities can provide detailed insights into water consumption patterns, facilitating the identification of inefficiencies and enabling targeted water-saving interventions.
Up to 4 credits for re-using water for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation or toilet flushing, reduces the demand on treated water supplies. This credit promotes innovative solutions for sustainable water sourcing.
Our experience in monitoring water recycling systems, such as greywater and rainwater harvesting solutions, can help track inefficiencies in these systems and maximise the reuse of water to reduce environmental impact.
Up to 4 credits for standardised reporting of water consumption, benchmarking, and comparison across different buildings and portfolios. This transparency encourages continuous improvement in water efficiency and supports informed decision-making.
Obtain 2 credits by using our data management and reporting tools to automate the collection, analysis, and reporting of water consumption data, providing clear and actionable insights to support decision-making.
Earn 1 extra credit when you report on it internally, and another credit if you publish this information in an annual report.
A comprehensive water strategy goes beyond individual measures by establishing a holistic approach to water management. It includes regular maintenance of water systems, water efficiency, water reuse, and leak detection. The strategy should also include a plan for monitoring and reporting water consumption ensuring optimal performance and longevity, as well as promoting awareness and behavioral changes among building occupants to foster a water-conscious culture.
Up to 8 credits are available depending on the comprehensiveness of the water strategy and the inclusion of specific elements such as:
A proactive maintenance policy for installed water systems
Targets for reducing water consumption
A plan for monitoring and reporting water consumption
A plan for engaging building occupants in water conservation efforts
Our holistic approach to water management and expertise in water efficiency, reuse, and leak detection can help building owners develop and implement comprehensive water strategies that achieve long-term sustainability and cost savings.
Every building’s risk profile and budget differ. Unlike one-size-fits-all systems, Quensus engineers a bespoke leak-detection solution around your insurer’s requirements and cost constraints - saving you thousands in wasted water and premiums. There is an unlimited number of options, but we have simplified leak prevention into our four main tiers:
A combination of bronze, silver and gold will provide the most effective leak prevention system available.
Automatic Flow Monitoring with Smart Shutoff Valves on the boosted supply to each unit/apartment. The most effective solution post-handover over the lifetime of the building.
Automatic Flow Monitoring with Smart Shutoff Valves on the boosted supply to each floor (or each riser if plumbing is vertically fed). Ideal during construction because each floor can be isolated individually.
The absolute minimum you should be looking for is Automatic Flow Monitoring on the Mains Cold Water System and Boosted Cold Water System for the whole building. This is covered in the BREEAM WAT03 standard.
Got questions? Ask us!
We’re your H2O Heroes! Choosing the right water management solution can be tricky, but our friendly team is here to help.
We’ve compiled the top FAQs for quick answers - Read FAQ.
What does “Escape of Water” actually mean?
Escape of Water refers to the unintended release of water from plumbing systems, heating infrastructure, appliances, storage tanks, or pipework that causes property damage, operational disruption, or insurance claims. It covers everything from burst pipes and faulty valves to slow hidden leaks that develop over time.
Why is Escape of Water such a major insurance issue?
Water damage claims are among the most frequent and expensive losses in the property sector. Even small leaks can escalate into significant reinstatement costs, operational downtime, tenant disruption, and long-term premium increases. Insurers therefore prioritise prevention measures that reduce both incident frequency and severity.
What typically causes Escape of Water incidents?
Common causes include:
Many incidents develop silently before visible damage appears.
What is the difference between leak detection and leak prevention?
Leak detection usually identifies a problem once water has already escaped. Prevention systems monitor water behaviour continuously, identify abnormal patterns early, and can isolate supply automatically. This reduces the likelihood of damage rather than simply responding after it has occurred.
Can Escape of Water incidents be completely prevented?
No system eliminates risk entirely, but intelligent monitoring, automatic shut-off capability, good system design, and proper operational procedures can dramatically reduce both the likelihood of incidents and their impact.
Do insurers require leak prevention systems?
Increasingly yes, particularly for:
Systems such as Active Automatic Flow Monitoring and Shut-Off (AAFMS) are often recommended or required as part of underwriting risk mitigation.
Can prevention systems reduce insurance premiums?
In many cases, demonstrable risk mitigation supports improved underwriting terms. This may include reduced deductibles, more favourable renewal conditions, or improved insurer confidence, although outcomes vary by insurer and risk profile.
How do automatic shut-off systems work?
Automatic shut-off systems monitor water flow continuously. When abnormal usage patterns are detected, such as continuous flow, unusual consumption times, or sudden spikes, the system can alert responsible teams and isolate supply where configured to prevent escalation.
What is AAFMS and why is it important?
AAFMS stands for Active Automatic Flow Monitoring and Shut-Off. These systems combine monitoring, analytics, alerting, and automated isolation to actively manage water risk. They are increasingly recognised by insurers as essential risk management infrastructure.
How does Escape of Water affect ESG and sustainability goals?
Water leaks contribute to waste, environmental impact, and operational inefficiency. Prevention systems support:
This is becoming increasingly important for developers and portfolio owners.
Are prevention systems only suitable for new buildings?
No. They can be installed during:
Installation strategies vary depending on building type, risk exposure, and operational constraints.
What happens if a leak occurs despite prevention systems?
Recommended actions include:
Prevention systems typically reduce severity and speed response even when incidents occur.
How does LeakNet specifically help prevent Escape of Water?
LeakNet continuously monitors water behaviour, identifies abnormal consumption early, provides real-time alerts, and can automatically isolate supply where configured. It also provides reporting, telemetry, and compliance support that help insurers, engineers, and facilities teams manage risk proactively.
Does LeakNet integrate with building systems?
Yes. LeakNet can integrate with building management systems, IoT infrastructure, and cloud platforms so water risk becomes part of overall building performance and risk management rather than a standalone function.
What standards or guidance does leak prevention support?
Prevention systems often align with:
This supports compliance, governance, and insurer confidence.
Is leak prevention expensive to install?
Costs vary depending on building size, complexity, and risk profile. However, preventing a single major Escape of Water incident often offsets installation costs many times over through avoided reinstatement, disruption, and insurance impact.
Quensus Ltd
Company Number: 09530781
VAT Number: GB251797479
Head Office
Strelley Hall, Nottingham,
England, NG8 6PE
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