Top 5 Signs Your Property Needs a Plumbing Upgrade
As a landlord in Cambridge, you’ve probably dealt with your fair share of niggles, from leaky loos in student flats off Mill Road to temperamental showers in Victorian terraces near Chesterton.
While a bit of a drip here and there might seem harmless, ignoring signs of a plumbing system in decline can lead to much bigger headaches down the line.
Like most things tucked out of sight, plumbing often goes unnoticed until something goes very wrong. And when it does, it’s rarely at a convenient time (typically just as your tenants are firing up the oven for a Sunday roast). Staying one step ahead with timely upgrades helps avoid expensive damage, emergency callouts and disgruntled tenants.
Here are five tell-tale signs your property’s plumbing might be due an upgrade. And why acting sooner rather than later could save you time, money and a few grey hairs.
1. The water pressure’s all over the place
If your tenants have mentioned their shower feels more like a dribble than a downpour, it’s worth paying attention. Low water pressure might seem like a minor gripe, but it often signals something more serious, like a hidden leak, a corroded pipe or sediment buildup in ageing plumbing.
Like many other parts of the UK, Cambridge has notoriously hard water. Over time, minerals from the chalky supply can do more than just leave scale on the kettle. They can clog up pipes, valves and shower heads. A pressure check and inspection by a qualified plumber can help determine whether it’s a quick fix or time to think about replacing sections of pipework altogether.
2. The pipes sound like they’re auditioning for the Royal Philharmonic
Noisy pipes aren’t just annoying, they’re trying to tell you something. If you hear clunking, whistling or banging when taps turn on or toilets flush, you might be dealing with a water hammer (caused by a pressure surge) or trapped air.
These odd little concerts tend to crop up in older properties (we’re talking pre-1970s) where original plumbing may still be in place. Worn-out valves and unsecured pipes are common culprits, but sometimes the whole system just wasn’t designed to handle modern water usage. Upgrading to modern, quieter piping not only keeps your tenants sane but can help prevent long-term structural strain on the system.
3. Discoloured water or funny smells
Turn on the tap and get a hint of rust, or worse, a whiff of rotten eggs? That’s your plumbing waving a red flag. Brown or orange water can be a sign of corroded iron pipes, especially if your property is older. Sulphuric smells? These might point to bacteria in your water heater or drains. While neither are particularly dangerous in the short term, both are off-putting for tenants and could lead to complaints, bad reviews or worse, legal action.
If you’re renting out to families around Trumpington or Cherry Hinton, who expect a clean and healthy rental, smelly taps just won’t cut it. A full plumbing inspection can identify whether it's time to upgrade pipes, replace your boiler or give your hot water system a proper flush.
4. Leaks that keep coming back
Every landlord knows the frustration of a repeat leak. That pipe behind the washing machine that’s been ‘fixed’ three times already. Or the under-sink joint that always seems damp, no matter how often it’s tightened.
Ongoing leaks point to wear and tear that’s beyond patch repair. Ageing pipework becomes brittle, fittings loosen and sealants degrade, especially in areas with high usage or frequent tenant turnover, like the student share houses in Cambridge or the multitude of Airbnbs in the city.
Fun fact: did you know that Cambridge attracts more than 7.6 million visitors every year? It’s a huge opportunity for short-term landlords but you’ll need to make sure your property is up to par, and that starts with good plumbing.
Instead of throwing money at constant repairs, it could be more cost-effective (and definitely more hassle-free) to upgrade the plumbing entirely. Copper piping, modern push-fit fittings and smart leak detectors are a solid investment for long-term reliability.
5. Your plumbing is older than your tenants
Cambridge is full of charming period homes with plumbing systems that haven’t seen an update since before decimalisation. If your property still runs on lead or galvanised steel pipes, it’s time for a rethink.
Lead pipes, still occasionally found in homes built before the 1970s, pose serious health risks and should be replaced as a priority. Galvanised pipes, meanwhile, are prone to internal corrosion that eventually restricts water flow and weakens structural integrity.
Beyond safety and performance, newer systems are simply better suited to the demands of modern life. Think power showers, dishwashers and efficient heating systems. If your plumbing’s struggling to keep up, it’s time to invest.
Why upgrading now makes sense
Leaving plumbing problems to simmer rarely ends well. From tenant disputes to emergency callouts and water damage repairs, reactive maintenance always costs more in the long run. Proactive upgrades like boiler services and plumbing upgrades give you:
- Fewer tenant complaints
Happy tenants renew contracts, leave good reviews and treat your property with more respect.
- Better efficiency
Modern systems waste less water, reduce energy bills and make your property more sustainable. Great for meeting EPC requirements and appealing to eco-conscious renters.
- Peace of mind
No more dread when the phone rings during a cold snap.
What does a plumbing upgrade actually involve?
It all depends on the condition of your current setup. For some landlords, it might be a case of upgrading taps, valves and visible pipework. For others, especially in older properties, it could mean a full system overhaul. Think new pipes, water heaters and pressure-regulating valves.
Smart tech can also play a role. Devices like leak detectors, app-controlled heating systems and water-saving taps aren’t just flash, they’re futureproofing your investment.
Why choose Plumbox?
At Plumbox, we understand the unique quirks of Cambridge homes. Whether your rental is a character cottage in Grantchester or a modern flat off Coldham’s Lane, we help landlords make practical, informed decisions about plumbing upgrades.
We work with landlords across the region to:
- Conduct full system health checks
- Provide honest advice on repair vs. replace
- Offer clear quotes, with no hidden nasties
- Carry out quality installations using trusted materials
If your property shows any of the five signs above, it’s time to stop patching and start planning. A plumbing upgrade might not sound glamorous but it’s one of the smartest ways to protect your investment.
Get in touch with Plumbox today and we’ll pop round, have a proper look and give you expert advice on how to move forward.
