Water under laminate flooring

[HelenHasaHoarse]

We bought our house in October. Recently, the laminate flooring in the dining room is seeping water, the part nearest the kitchen. Our dishwasher had been given flood errors so we replaced it but it was all dry underneath and behind. Likewise there is no issues with the washing machine pipes.

What could it be and what could we do? We've never owned a house before so are clueless. Who can we call, can this be sorted on insurance?

Thanks in advance

The floor may have initially seemed dry as the water can be soaked up by the underlay (like a sponge). Eventually it has to go somewhere and that means coming up through the boards. It will more than likely cause the planks to warp/rise/split depending on the amount of water involved. It is highly unlikely it will ever sit flat again.
Call your insurance company - see how you're covered.

Generally, you should try and lift it to clear up the water and avoid any issues with mould.
The good thing with laminate is that it is easier to replace small sections rather than having to replace a solid wood floor. The downside is whether you know the brand/colour of the floor in order to replace it.

Is it a concrete floor?

Thank you! PigletJohn - I have no idea I'm afraid. It's a steel frame and brick ex council house from the 1950s.

probably a leaking pipe.

pull up a bit of carpet in another room. jump up and down. you will feel if it is the same. The flooring will have to come up and go in the skip. Your insurance may cover the flooring, but not repairing the leak. Ask around for personal recommendations of a local plumber.

Is there a water meter? Is it constantly turning?

Is there a pressure gauge on the boiler?

No water meter, the pressure is fine on the boiler. It's very localised - only a small bit of the floor is affected.

possibly.

you won't know what else is out of sight.

Had a plumber out, there is no leak, so it's either that it was the dishwasher, or possibly the patio outside is slightly higher than the DPC.

Do I call insurance? I've never owned a home before so clueless.

If the damage was caused by the leaking dishwasher, you could probably claim for drying-out and floor repair on your insurance.

It might be worth it, but you will have an excess, and your premium might go up.

If you are handy, rip up the laminate and let everything dry out. Laminate is very cheap and can be DIY. Take lots of photos in case you end up claiming.

Did the plumber offer an opinion on cause?

He thinks dishwasher due to the pattern of the damage. It would make sense, the patio has been there for 10 years without any issue.

We don't have any spare planks for the floor and no money.

You can get it for £6/sq metre and up.

www.wickes.co.uk/Products/Flooring/Laminate-Flooring/c/1000887?q=%3Aprice-asc

You really do need to take up the old stuff and dry out the building.