A burst pipe is one of those home disasters that can strike without warning − and when it does, things get messy fast. Water can pour out in all directions, damaging walls, floors and even your furniture.
But there’s no need to panic. Before the plumber arrives, there are a few key things you can do to reduce the damage and take control of the situation.
“Acting quickly and calmly can make all the difference,” according to a spokesperson from After Hours Plumbing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to handle a burst pipe like a pro − from shutting off the water to applying a temporary fix.
Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a full-on flood, these simple actions can help protect your home and give your plumber a head start when they arrive.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
The very first thing you should do when you discover a burst pipe is to shut off your home’s main water supply. This stops water from continuing to flow through the damaged pipe and helps prevent further flooding.
Here’s how to do it:
- Find the main shut-off valve – It’s usually located near the water meter, often outside the house, in a utility box or under the kitchen sink.
- Turn the valve off – If it’s a tap-style valve, turn it clockwise until it’s tight. For lever-style valves, turn the lever so it’s perpendicular to the pipe.
- Check that the water has stopped – Turn on a tap in your home to confirm the water has stopped flowing.
Getting this step done quickly can save you from major water damage. Once the water’s off, you’ll have time to safely assess the situation and wait for your plumber to arrive.
Shut Off Electricity If Necessary
If water from a burst pipe starts spreading near electrical outlets, light switches or appliances, it’s time to think about safety first. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and even a small amount of contact can create a serious risk of electric shock or fire.
If you notice water creeping towards any power points or electrical equipment, head straight to your switchboard and turn off the power to the affected area − or shut off the main power if you’re unsure which circuit to switch off.
Don’t attempt to unplug anything or touch outlets if they’re wet − leave that to the professionals. It’s always better to be overly cautious in situations like this.
If the burst is far from any electrical sources, you may not need to worry, but it’s worth doing a quick check. Keeping your home safe is just as important as preventing water damage.
Drain the Pipes
After you’ve turned off the main water supply, it’s important to drain the remaining water from your plumbing system. This helps relieve pressure in the pipes and prevents more water from leaking out of the burst area.
Here’s what to do:
- Turn on all cold taps – Start with the taps at the highest point in your home and work your way down. This allows water to flow out and air to enter the pipes.
- Flush all toilets – This clears water from the toilet tanks and reduces the chance of overflow or leaks.
- Switch off your hot water system – For safety, especially if it’s a storage system. Once it’s off, turn on the hot taps to drain those lines as well.
Draining the pipes only takes a few minutes but can make a big difference. It’s a simple way to prevent extra mess while you wait for the plumber.
Locate the Burst and Assess the Damage
Once the water’s turned off and the immediate risk is under control, the next step is to figure out exactly where the pipe has burst. Sometimes, it’s obvious − you might see water spraying or a ceiling dripping.
Other times, it’s more subtle. Look for signs like wet patches on walls or ceilings, bulging paint or even the sound of water hissing behind walls.
If you can safely access the area, try to inspect the pipe and see how bad the damage is. This will help when the plumber arrives, as you can give them a heads-up about what they’re dealing with.
However, don’t go pulling off wall panels or cutting into anything. Your main job here is to spot the source and keep the area as safe and dry as possible. A little observation now can make the repair process quicker and smoother later.
Contain the Water
Once the leak is under control, your next priority is damage control − literally. Start by containing any water that’s already pooled or still leaking from the burst pipe.
Grab towels, buckets and mops to soak up as much water as you can. If the leak is still dripping, position a bucket or large container underneath to catch the water and stop it from spreading further.
Move rugs, furniture and personal items out of the affected area to prevent further damage. If anything has already been soaked, set it aside in a dry, well-ventilated space to dry out. The faster you act, the better chance you have of saving your floors and belongings.
It’s also a good idea to open windows and doors to help the space dry out and prevent mould from forming. Every little bit helps until the plumber arrives to fix the source of the problem.
Apply a Temporary Fix
While you wait for the plumber to arrive, you might be able to reduce the leak with a quick, temporary fix. It won’t be a permanent solution, but it can help limit the water damage.
Here are a few simple options:
- Wrap the burst section with plumbing or waterproof tape – This can help seal small cracks or holes and slow the leak.
- Use a rubber patch and hose clamps – Place a piece of rubber (like from an old garden hose or bike tube) over the burst and secure it tightly with clamps or cable ties.
- Try an epoxy putty or pipe repair clamp – These are available from hardware stores and can be useful in emergencies if you have them on hand.
Make sure the pipe is as dry as possible before applying any patch and remember – this is just a short-term fix. Your plumber will need to do a proper repair.
Ventilate the Area
Once the water is contained, it’s time to help your home dry out. Ventilating the area is key to preventing mould and mildew, which can set in surprisingly fast after a leak.
Start by opening windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. If you’ve got ceiling or portable fans, point them towards the wet area to speed up the drying process. Dehumidifiers are also a great help if you have one on hand − they pull moisture from the air and help dry out carpets, walls, and furniture more quickly.
Even if the space looks dry on the surface, there can still be hidden moisture in walls and flooring, so good airflow is essential. Keep things well-ventilated for at least a few hours, or until the plumber gives the all-clear.
Taking this simple step now can save you a bigger headache down the track, like warped floorboards or lingering odours.
Call a Licensed Plumber Immediately
Once you’ve stopped the water flow and done your best to manage the situation, it’s time to call in the professionals. A burst pipe is not something you want to leave unattended for long.
Here’s why calling a licensed plumber right away is so important:
- They’ll provide expert repairs – Plumbers have the tools and know-how to fix the problem properly, ensuring it doesn’t happen again.
- They can assess for hidden damage – A pro will check for any water damage you might not see, like behind walls or under floors.
- They’ll get your plumbing back to normal – Fast and safe, so you can relax knowing your home’s in good hands.
- Many offer emergency services – If it’s after hours, look for a 24/7 plumber who can respond quickly.
Make sure to let them know what you’ve done so far – it’ll help speed up the repair process.
Be Prepared and Act Quickly
Dealing with a burst pipe can be stressful, but acting quickly and calmly can make a huge difference. By shutting off the water, draining the pipes, and taking steps to contain the mess, you’re already preventing further damage before the plumber even gets there.
Even a simple temporary fix can help buy you some time. Safety should always come first – especially when water and electricity are involved – so don’t take any risks. Ventilating the area and keeping things dry can also save you from future issues like mould.
Most importantly, don’t delay calling a licensed plumber. They’ll handle the repair properly and check for any hidden damage. With a little preparation and quick thinking, you can protect your home and keep a plumbing emergency from becoming a disaster.
Keep this guide handy – it could be a lifesaver when the unexpected happens.
