After a week of freezing temperatures, a rapid thaw has been predicted over the weekend of 17 and 18 December. This quick change will increase the chance of water pipes bursting, both in the water supply network and on resident’s pipes.
Thames Water is taking precautions to make sure they are as prepared as possible for this challenge, and they have taken steps both to ensure they can deal with any eventuality and to help customers.
The company has 215 leak repair teams on stand-by and more than 300 leak detectors in the network and has reduced the level of planned work this weekend to free up teams to carry out repairs.
There will be more staff available to answer phones at Thames Water customer contact centre at times when demand will be highest and a team of plumbers are on stand-by ready to carry out repairs where needed.
You can report a leak on the Thames Water website or ring their contact centre on 0800 316 9800.
There is also helpful advice and guidance on the Thames Water website on how to avoid leaks, radiator maintenance and how to cut off your water supply if you are unfortunate enough to find your pipes have burst.