Individual Stopcocks in flats- are they mandatory for leaseholders/landlords?

[Joanne Fraser]

Hi
I have 2 flats in a block of 7. I also own my share of the freehold in the block. My flats all have stopcocks fitted in the flat in case of a leak. Many of the others do not. We have had 2 or 3 leaks recently, and I have recently refurbed both flats. I brought it up in a meeting that all flats should have them- the cost is very low in comparison with the cost of a leak- but other landlords/ freeholders/leaseholders did not want the "un-necessary" expense and did not seem to care. Given that they have the top flat they are in no danger, but other flats are, and to me it seems a simple and obvious responsible action to prevent damage.

Is this not mandatory these days?

Can anyone guide to to the regulations/advice on this so I can raise it without creating tension? Because most of us are freeholders and leaseholders we all have to agree (?)

Is there a way I can get the managing agent to require that this is done?

It seems like a no-brainer to me given the relatively small cost. I am new to being a freeholder.

Thanks!

[Codger]

Ideally every tap or valve would have a service valve and it would have a handle not just a slot for a screwdriver.
but a lot of residents would not have the practical skills to turn it off.
Leaks between flats are a serious problem but in my experience everyone passed the buck. Good luck!

[Gordon999]

https://www.directline.com/home-cove...-is-a-stopcock

Is a Stopcock a Legal Requirement?

It is now a legal requirement for every home to have at least one stopcock. Most properties will have one, situated somewhere close to the water input from the main supply.

However, older properties may not have them, so they will need to have one installed as soon as possible to meet the requirements of local water regulations.

Above information was copied from coastaldrains website