WaterSafe, the UK national register of approved plumbers, is sharing top tips for residents looking to move home this autumn.

These tips are designed to prevent problems with leaks, bursts or potential contamination later down the line.

1. Find your internal stop tap and check you can turn the water off and on again, in case you need to turn the water off in an emergency

2. Note down the details of a local WaterSafe-approved plumber – just in case

3. Look out for leaky toilets, taps and radiators – these can waste hundreds of litres of drinking water a day if left unchecked, adding to your bill if you have a meter

4. Kit out your new home with free water-saving devices from Save Water Save Money or Get Water Fit.  If you’re purchasing new taps, shower heads or accessories, make sure they are tested for compliance with drinking water, such as those approved by BSI, KIWA, NSF and WRAS

5. Check the boiler’s service history and that the cold water cistern (a tank usually situated in the loft) has a lid on it to prevent debris from entering - and always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for servicing.

If moving into a home which has been empty for some time, protect your family from potentially contracting Legionnaires’ disease by asking a WaterSafe-approved plumber to flush the plumbing system. The disease is caused by inhaling droplets of water vapour contaminated with Legionella bacteria – such as via a hose or shower spray – which thrives in warm, stagnant water.

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, said:

“Autumn is a popular time for people to move home. Our members report they then get frequent calls about plumbing-related issues in customers’ new properties.

“We know it can feel like you have an endless list of things to do when moving home, but by following these five tips you can prevent disaster later down the line.

“It’s especially important to be Legionella-aware if your home has been empty for some time before you move in.

“There is lots of free advice on our website about plumbing, pipes, taps and fittings but I would always recommend calling in an approved plumber rather than trying to fix things yourself.

“WaterSafe-approved contractors have specific training in the water fittings regulations and byelaws, protecting you from poor installation or the use of sub-standard plumbing products that could contaminate your drinking water.”

For more advice, visit watersafe.org.uk/movinghouse.