Proof of the leak test

What is a leak test? Why is it necessary for houses and apartments in Hamburg?

An elementary part of the building infrastructure of houses and apartments consists of the drainage systems: both the waste water from the shower, dishwasher, washing machine and other appliances and the rainwater flow from the property into the sewer system in a controlled and, if necessary, treated manner - at least this should be the case if the system is intact. This is because over time (especially in older houses and apartments) corrosion or external influences such as roots, animals or dynamics within the soil can cause the pipes to leak or break. Potentially harmful wastewater can then enter the environment and endanger plants, animals and people. Defects are also possible in other components. For this reason, the leak test checks whether the pipes are still undamaged and functioning as intended or whether they may need to be replaced.

What should you look out for when commissioning a leak test in Hamburg?

Due to the legal changes since 2020, the demand for leak tests in Hamburg has increased significantly. For many qualified companies that are allowed to carry out such a test, waiting times of weeks or months must be taken into account. Dubious providers sometimes try to exploit this situation by advertising short-term feasibility and low prices - however, such service providers do not always prove to be reputable. The best way to identify a professional tradesman in Hamburg is to use industry directories such as the Güteschutz Kanalbau or the SHK Handwerke e.V.. The cost of a leak test for an average detached house is usually around 300 to 500 euros, plus any expenses for necessary repairs. The team of real estate agents at Engel & Völkers will be happy to put you in touch with a reliable company in the area!

Are you currently considering selling your house or apartment? Or is the proof of the leak test for your property no longer valid and you would like to apply for a new one? Engel & Völkers will be happy to help you find the ideal solution for your real estate project. Please contact us directly via our contact form to arrange a free initial consultation with our real estate consultants!

Mandatory in Hamburg since 2020: proof that a leak test has been carried out

Unlike in some other federal states, property owners in Hamburg must independently ensure that the tightness of their house or apartment is guaranteed. Based on the Hamburg Wastewater Act, the transitional period ended on December 31, 2020, meaning that since then, proof of this must be provided upon request by the authorities. Such proof is valid for a period of 25 years, with the exception of properties in water protection areas, where a leak test must be carried out every 10 years.

It is important that not just one part of the drainage system is tested, but the entirety of all components - i.e. not just the pipes, but also collecting tanks, shafts or grease traps, for example. To do this, the entire system is first cleaned and then inspected for visible damage using a camera probe. For some systems, it is also necessary to carry out a pressure test in order to detect even minor damage that only allows wastewater to pass through at a higher pressure.

Proof of the leak test should be provided at the latest when you plan to sell your property as the purchase contract cannot be notarized without it. Our estate agents would therefore warmly recommend that you deal with this issue at an early stage so that the successful sale of your house or apartment can be completed without complications.