The copper pipework that is usually found in older style homes will quite often with constant use have developed thin and perhaps scaled inner walls. If left for a long time this can weaken pipework so it can no longer contain the pressure of the water system and holes can appear. Kensington Plumbers use skilled tradesmen. If this occurs, a first aid repair with rubber patches held with jubilee clips can be done, but the only quality repair involves replacing the leaking section of copper pipework with a new piece. Today, new modern brass compression fittings allow even the most amateur plumber to replace leaking copper pipes without soldering etc. If you are not confident you should call a professional like A Kensington Plumber who is trained to fit all types of joints. Lets assume there a a few small holes and a length needs to be replaced. So, isolate water supply, and drain through a tap at a low point in the home. Lay the new piece of pipe at the side of the old pipe. Mark the pipe for length, allow a couple of inches of overrun each side of the damage. You will need to unclip the pipe to give some play to let you to slip on the compression fitting. Using a steel tape measure, note the length. Place a tube cutter over the mark on the pipework and now clamp down on the pipe by turning the grip clockwise, then turn. Too much pressure will bend the pipe end, and damage the blade. Once the pipework is cut and removed, use a blade or a file and remove any burrs. Place the cap nuts on both tails followed by an olive. Having fitted the tails into the compression fitting, now place the new length of pipe into the joints and push home. Slide the olives into the fittings, followed by the cap nuts and tighten by hand. Hand tight should be fine but use a ¼ turn with a wrench if requires. Turn the water back on and check for leaks. “