Flexi Hoses: A Hidden Danger in Your Home
Why They Need to Be Inspected, Replaced & Pressure Protected
Introduction
They’re small, flexible, and tucked out of sight – but flexible braided hoses, also known as flexi hoses, are one of the most common causes of household water damage in Australia. Left unchecked, a corroded or worn flexi hose can burst without warning and flood your home in minutes.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
- What a flexi hose is
- Why they burst and how to prevent it
- What insurers like Suncorp are warning homeowners about
- How pressure reduction valves (PRVs) play a role in hose failure – What you can do to protect your home and avoid denied claims
What Is a Flexi Hose?
A flexi hose is a short, braided stainless-steel pipe commonly used to connect water supplies to taps, toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers. They’re flexible, cheap, and quick to install – but they don’t last forever.
Most hoses have a rubber inner core and are expected to last 5 to 10 years. Over time, they’re exposed to:
- Water pressure surges
- Moisture and rust
- Kinks and twists from installation
- Vibration from appliances
These factors cause fraying, rusting, or bulging, all of which can lead to sudden failure.
Why Do Flexi Hoses Burst?
A burst flexi hose can release thousands of litres of water per hour. The causes are often simple:
- Ageing and internal deterioration
- Corrosion of the stainless-steel braid
- Overtightening or poor installation
- High water pressure exceeding safe levels
The risk skyrockets when water pressure is above 500 kPa – which is why having a PRV installed is so important.
What the Data Says – Suncorp Insurance
Suncorp analysed over 22,000 home water damage claims and found that: – Around 10% of all water damage claims were caused by burst flexi hoses – The average damage cost exceeded $27,500 per incident
- In some homes, it took months to repair widespread water damage
- If hoses show visible rust, fraying, or wear, insurance claims may be denied
- Homeowners are often unaware their hoses are deteriorating behind closed cabinets
Read the official report: https://www.suncorpgroup.com.au/news/news/flexi-hoses-2025
How PRVs Protect Flexi Hoses
A Pressure Reduction Valve (PRV) limits water pressure entering your home to below 500 kPa, in line with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3500.
Without one:
- Flexi hoses are placed under constant strain
- Sudden surges or spikes can rupture the hose
- Plumbing work may fail compliance checks
- Insurance claims may be rejected if pressure is deemed excessive
By installing a PRV, you’re protecting not just your hoses, but every appliance, pipe, and tap in your home.
Signs You Need to Replace a Flexi Hose
Check these areas in your home:
- Under kitchen and bathroom sinks
- Behind toilets
- Around dishwashers and washing machines
Look for:
- Rust or corrosion on the outer braid – Bulging or fraying
- Kinks in the hose
- Any hose that’s older than 5 years
Pro Tip: Take a photo and send it to your plumber if you’re unsure – we can assess it for you.
How Loyal Plumbing Can Help
We offer a full inspection and replacement service across Adelaide, including: – Visual assessment of all flexi hoses
- Water pressure testing
- PRV supply and installation
- Same-day flexi hose replacements
- Fixed upfront pricing and lifetime workmanship guarantee
Maintenance Tip: Replace Before It Breaks
Waiting until a hose bursts can cost tens of thousands. Preventative replacement is a small cost for peace of mind.
We recommend:
- Replacing flexi hoses every 5-7 years
- Installing a PRV if your pressure is above 500 kPa – Booking an annual plumbing check-up
Flexi Hose FAQ (Flexible Water Connectors)
What is a flexi hose?
A flexi hose (flexible braided hose) is a stainless-steel braided connector used under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances to connect water to taps and fixtures.
Why do flexi hoses burst?
Over time, they corrode, fray, or crack due to water pressure, vibration, rust, and general wear. If not replaced every 5–7 years, they can suddenly fail and flood your home.
How often should I replace my flexi hoses?
Every 5 to 7 years is recommended. Earlier if you notice rust, bulging, or fraying.
Are burst flexi hoses covered by insurance?
Not always. Insurers may deny claims if the hose shows signs of neglect, corrosion, or if your home exceeds the legal water pressure limit (500 kPa).
How can I tell if my flexi hose is at risk?
Check for:
- Visible rust or fraying
- Kinks or signs of stretching
- Leaks or moisture around fittings
- Hoses older than 5 years with no record of replacement
Can I replace a flexi hose myself?
It’s best left to a licensed plumber. Incorrect installation can cause leaks, void insurance, or create future failure points.
How much does a flexi hose replacement cost?
At Loyal Plumbing, we offer same-day replacement with fixed upfront pricing and full inspection of all hoses in your home.
Don't wait for disaster to strike.
Book a flexi hose inspection with Loyal Plumbing today.
We'll make sure your home is compliant, covered, and protected.
Service That Earns Loyalty, Guaranteed.