A Pipe Burst. What Do I Do First?
Shut off the main water valve, then turn off power to anything wet if you can do it safely. Open a low tap to drain the lines, move valuables, take photos for insurance and send an urgent request.
Request a plumberWhere is the main shut-off?
Often in a meter box near the street, and sometimes on the pipe where it enters the house, in the garage or by the water heater. Learn where yours is before you need it.
What about electricity?
If water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, stay out of the water. Only switch off a breaker if you can reach the panel without standing in water.
How do I drain the pipes?
Open the lowest tap in the house, like a tub or an outdoor tap, to let the water left in the lines run out.
What do I do about the water heater?
Turn a gas heater to pilot or vacation, or switch off the breaker for an electric one, so it doesn't heat an empty or draining tank.
Should I take photos?
Yes, before cleaning up: the break, the water, damaged floors and belongings. Insurers want them.
Who fixes it?
Send an urgent request with what happened and where. See emergency plumbing.
What about drying out?
Mop up standing water, run fans and open windows if the weather allows. Wet drywall and insulation can grow mold within a couple of days, so a water damage company may be needed for big leaks.
How do I stop it happening again?
Find out why it burst: freezing, age, high water pressure or a bad fitting. A plumber can test your water pressure and suggest a pressure-reducing valve if it's too high.
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