TL;DR: Burst flexi hoses are the leading cause of home flooding insurance claims in Queensland. The RMC FloodGuard system automatically shuts off your water supply within seconds of detecting a burst, preventing tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Scarborough Plumbing installs FloodGuard systems across the Redcliffe Peninsula — including Scarborough, Redcliffe, Margate, Clontarf, and Newport.
The Hidden Flood Risk in Every Queensland Home
Beneath your kitchen sink, behind your bathroom vanity, and connecting your toilet cistern, there are small flexible hoses carrying pressurised water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These are flexi hoses — and they are one of the most common causes of serious home flooding in Queensland.
When a flexi hose fails, it does not drip. It bursts. In the time it takes for you to notice and find the water shut-off valve, a burst flexi hose can discharge hundreds of litres of water into your home, causing catastrophic damage to flooring, cabinetry, walls, and electrical systems.
What is the RMC FloodGuard?
The RMC FloodGuard is an automatic water shut-off device that is installed inline on your water supply connections. It constantly monitors the flow of water through each connection. If it detects the sudden, abnormal surge of water that occurs when a flexi hose bursts, it automatically closes the valve and shuts off the water supply — in seconds.
This means that even if you are asleep, at work, or on holiday, a burst flexi hose will be stopped before it can cause serious damage to your home.
Why Flexi Hoses Fail
Most flexi hoses have a lifespan of around 10 years under normal conditions. However, in Queensland’s hot, humid coastal environment, this lifespan can be significantly shorter. The rubber inner lining degrades over time, particularly when exposed to hot water under constant pressure. The outer stainless steel braid can also corrode in salty coastal air.
The risk is compounded by the fact that most homeowners never think to inspect or replace their flexi hoses — they are hidden away in dark cupboards, out of sight and out of mind, until the day they fail.
Where FloodGuard is Installed
A comprehensive FloodGuard installation by Scarborough Plumbing covers every water connection point in your home:
The Installation Process
A full FloodGuard installation by Scarborough Plumbing is a clean, professional job that typically takes under two hours for a standard home. We replace all existing flexi hoses with quality stainless steel braided hoses at the same time, giving your home a complete under-sink upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does FloodGuard affect my water pressure?
No. The FloodGuard valve is designed to be completely transparent during normal water use. It only activates when it detects the abnormal flow rate of a burst hose.
Can I install FloodGuard myself?
FloodGuard installation involves cutting into your water supply lines and must be carried out by a licensed plumber to comply with Queensland plumbing regulations and to ensure the device operates correctly.
How much does a FloodGuard installation cost?
The cost depends on the number of connection points in your home. Contact Scarborough Plumbing for a no-obligation quote tailored to your property.
Protect Your Home Today
Don’t wait for a burst flexi hose to remind you how vulnerable your home is. Contact Scarborough Plumbing today on 0400 322 335 to arrange a FloodGuard installation and give your home the protection it deserves.
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