Trace and access cover is a common feature of home insurance policies, especially buildings insurance.
It covers the cost of finding where a hidden leak is coming from, so it can get repaired.
We’re here to talk all things trace and access – including what it covers and what to do if you have a leak.
What does trace and access cover?
It covers the cost of removing and replacing parts of the building when trying to find the source of a leak.
This can sometimes be more work than expected, especially if it’s not obvious where it’s coming from. For example, you might need to take up floorboards to access the plumbing.
So, trace and access also covers the cost of putting your home back to the way it was before the leak was found and fixed.
Don’t forget that policy limits and exclusions always apply. Make sure you check your policy book to see what you are and aren’t covered for.
Does home insurance include trace and access as standard?
It depends on the kind of policy you have.
All of Admiral’s home insurance levels (Admiral, Gold and Platinum) offer some trace and access cover:
- Admiral: up to £5,000
- Gold: up to £5,000
- Platinum: up to £10,000
Heads up, you won’t be covered if you only have contents insurance. You’ll need to have buildings insurance or combined home insurance (which includes buildings and contents).
If you’re insured with us, check your home insurance policy in MyAccount to see what you’re covered for. You can also get in touch with us to find out.
What doesn’t trace and access cover?
It doesn’t include repairing the source of the leak, like tanks or pipes, or the cost of any damage the leak has caused.
Is trace and access included in Home Emergency cover?
No, trace and access isn’t included in Home Emergency or Home Emergency Extra cover.
We know it can be easy to confuse Home Emergency cover with trace and access cover. Don’t worry, we’re here to explain the difference:
Home Emergency cover
Home Emergency cover helps with urgent damage that needs immediate work to stop further issues and keep you safe.
For example, say there’s a leaking pipe in your home. We'll arrange for a contractor to come out and do emergency repairs to stop the leak, if it’s accessible.
But Home Emergency cover doesn't include the cost of finding the source of a hidden leak or repairing any damage caused by it.
Trace and access cover
Trace and access cover helps with the cost of finding the source of a leak when it isn't obvious or easy to access.
This can include removing and then putting back parts of your home – like walls, floors or ceilings – to access to the leak.
Is trace and access included on landlord insurance?
It depends on your policy and your level of cover.
For example, if you have buildings or combined landlord insurance with us, you might have some trace and access included.
Here are our cover limits:
- Admiral: not included
- Admiral Gold: up to £5,000
- Admiral Platinum: up to £10,000
Check your policy book for more details. We also offer Landlord Emergency cover.
Are underground pipes covered by home insurance?
Your insurance should cover accidental damage to underground drains, pipes, cables and tanks that you’re responsible for.
Heads up – they won’t be covered if:
- the damaged pipes aren’t your responsibility – for example, they’re looked after by the local water authority
- the pipes have been damaged intentionally or over time thanks to wear and tear
Also, if there’s no damage to the pipe or drain itself, we won’t cover the cost of clearing blockages from them.
How do I make a trace and access claim?
If you have home insurance with us, check your policy documents to see if you're covered and what your limits are. If you are, head to our make a claim page.
We'll usually ask you to arrange for a professional to find the source of the leak. Sometimes you'll need to pay for this first, then claim the costs back.
Keep any invoices, reports and other evidence – we'll need these to look into your claim.
If you're insured elsewhere, your insurer might send out a specialist trace and access tradesperson. They'll probably cover the cost if they do.
If you have Home Emergency or Home Emergency Extra cover and you've found a leak, call our specialist helpline right away.
