How to tell if your supply is shared
- Your stopcock is in a neighbour's property or a shared hallway.
- Neighbours lose water when you turn yours off.
- Low pressure when neighbours run water.
- The house is an older terrace or converted flats.
Why it matters
In an emergency you may need to turn off the water fast. If the only stopcock is next door and they are away, you could have a flood. Every plumber should check on the first visit whether the supply is shared and where every stopcock is.
Good practice in a shared supply
- Make sure you have your own internal stopcock where the pipe enters your home.
- Fit isolation valves on every tap and toilet.
- Keep neighbours' contact details for emergencies.
- Agree how repairs to the shared pipe are paid for.
Getting your own supply
Many water companies encourage replacing shared supplies. You may pay for the pipe on your side, and they connect it to the main. It improves pressure and gives you full control.
