The 2024 Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for the Escape of Water provides a framework to mitigate water damage risks on construction sites. Developed by insurers, construction professionals, and risk managers, it addresses growing water-related incidents that disrupt projects and cause financial losses.

Why It’s Essential

1. Financial Impact: Water damage causes costly delays, repairs, and reputational harm.
2. Risk Mitigation: The JCoP outlines preventative strategies for all project phases.
3. Insurance Alignment: Adherence can reduce premiums and improve insurability.

Core Principles

1. Risk Assessment: Identify risks (e.g., faulty pipework, human error) early and integrate assessments into all project phases.
2. Design Measures: Use resilient designs, materials, and methods to minimize vulnerabilities.
3. Site Management: Appoint a Water Damage Risk Manager (WDRM) to oversee mitigation, inspections, and testing.
4. Monitoring Systems: Implement leak detection, automated shutoffs, and real-time monitoring.
5. Training: Educate teams on installation, prevention, and emergency protocols.
6. Incident Response: Develop emergency plans and investigative procedures to prevent recurrence.

Applications

• New Builds: Integrate water risk management from planning to design.
• Refurbishments: Address vulnerabilities in older structures.
• Fit-Outs: Prevent risks during retrofitting or upgrades.

Implementing JCoP Compliance

1. Planning: Appoint a WDRM and conduct water risk assessments.
2. Design: Integrate leak-resistant systems, automatic shut-offs, and robust drainage.
3. Procurement: Select qualified subcontractors and quality equipment.
4. Site Implementation: Train teams, install monitoring systems, and test systems before finishes.
5. Monitoring: Conduct regular inspections and maintain logs.
6. Emergency Response: Develop action plans, conduct drills, and prepare tools for containment.
7. Post-Completion: Perform final integrity checks and train occupants on leak detection.
8. Documentation: Maintain records of assessments, inspections, and testing for review.

Water Damage and Insurance

1. Major Issue: Water damage is costly for insurers, often covered under Contract Works or Public Liability policies.
2. Compliance Benefits: Reduces claims, lowers premiums, and improves insurability.
3. Policy Alignment: Insurers may mandate JCoP compliance; non-compliance risks claim denials.
4. Risk Reduction: Proactive mitigation improves claims defensibility and reduces post-incident premium hikes.

Conclusion

The 2024 JCoP is a proactive framework to mitigate water risks, aligning construction practices with insurers’ expectations. Benefits include:

• Reduced claims, delays, and costs.
• Lower insurance premiums and better coverage.
• Enhanced trust with insurers, clients, and investors.

Compliance with the JCoP safeguards budgets, timelines, and reputations, making it essential for today’s construction industry.

Please contact Vista Insurance Brokers today to discuss how we can assist on all aspects of your construction project on 0161 393 7111 or email info@vistainsurance.co.uk