A burst pipe can turn into a serious water problem fast. Whether water is spraying from an exposed pipe, running through a wall, or dripping through a ceiling, the first few minutes matter.
The goal is simple: stop the flow of water, stay away from electrical hazards, and request plumbing help as soon as possible.
Here is what to do.
1. Shut Off the Water
If you can safely reach the nearest shutoff valve, turn it off immediately.
For a problem affecting one fixture, such as a sink or toilet, there may be a small shutoff valve nearby.
For a larger leak or a pipe that has burst inside a wall, ceiling, crawl space, or basement, you may need to shut off the main water supply.
The main shutoff is commonly found:
- Near the water meter
- Where the main water line enters the house
- In a garage
- In a basement or crawl space
- In a utility area
Turn the valve clockwise until it stops if it is a traditional round valve. Lever-style valves are generally closed when the handle is turned perpendicular to the pipe.
Do not force a valve that is damaged, badly corroded, or difficult to reach.
2. Be Careful Around Electricity
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
Stay away from standing water near:
- Electrical outlets
- Appliances
- Extension cords
- Electrical panels
- Exposed or damaged wiring
Do not step into standing water to unplug something or reach an electrical panel.
If water is spreading near electrical equipment and you cannot safely control the situation, move away from the area and wait for professional help.
3. Open a Faucet After the Water Is Off
Once the water supply has been shut off, opening a faucet can help relieve pressure remaining in the plumbing system.
Start with a faucet on a lower level of the home when possible.
This may help reduce the amount of water that continues escaping from the damaged pipe.
4. Move Valuables Away From the Water
Move furniture, electronics, rugs, boxes, and other belongings away from the affected area when it is safe to do so.
Do not place yourself at risk to save property.
If water is coming through a ceiling, avoid standing directly underneath sagging drywall. Wet ceiling materials can become heavy and may fall without much warning.
5. Collect Dripping Water
Use buckets, pans, or other containers to catch water that is still dripping.
Towels can help with small amounts of water, but they will not control an active pipe failure.
For larger leaks, focus first on stopping the water supply rather than trying to clean faster than the pipe can leak.
6. Take Photos of the Damage
Once the immediate situation is under control, take photos and short videos of:
- The damaged pipe
- Visible water
- Wet walls or ceilings
- Damaged flooring
- Affected belongings
These records may be useful when documenting what happened.
Do not delay shutting off the water just to take pictures.
7. Request Plumbing Help
A burst pipe usually needs more than a temporary patch.
A plumber may need to determine:
- Where the pipe failed
- Why it failed
- Whether other sections are damaged
- How much piping needs to be replaced
- Whether the water supply can be safely restored
When requesting help, provide as much useful information as possible.
Include:
- Your location
- Where the leak is happening
- Whether the water is shut off
- How much water is present
- Whether the damaged pipe is visible
- The best phone number to reach you
The more clearly you describe the problem, the easier it is to understand what is happening.
What Causes Pipes to Burst?
Pipes can fail for several reasons.
Freezing temperatures
Water expands as it freezes. Pressure can build inside a pipe until the pipe, fitting, or joint fails.
The leak may not become obvious until the frozen area begins to thaw.
Corrosion
Older metal pipes can weaken over time. Corrosion may eventually create small leaks or contribute to a sudden failure.
High water pressure
Excessive water pressure can place additional stress on pipes, valves, fittings, and appliance connections.
Physical damage
Pipes can be damaged during remodeling, drilling, excavation, or other work around the property.
Aging materials
Older plumbing materials and connections may become more vulnerable to leaks as they age.
How Do You Know a Pipe Has Burst Behind a Wall?
Not every burst pipe is visible.
Possible signs include:
- Water stains that spread quickly
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Wet drywall
- Water running from a ceiling
- Unexplained sounds of running water
- A sudden drop in water pressure
- A rapidly increasing water meter reading
A hidden pipe problem can continue causing damage even when you cannot see the actual break.
Can You Temporarily Patch a Burst Pipe?
Some temporary products may slow a small leak, but they are not a substitute for identifying and repairing the damaged section.
A temporary patch may fail without warning.
For an active leak, the safest priority is usually:
- Shut off the water.
- Keep people away from hazards.
- Request plumbing help.
Should You Turn the Water Back On?
Do not restore the water supply just to see whether the pipe is still leaking.
A damaged pipe can release more water as soon as pressure returns.
Wait until the problem has been assessed and it is safe to restore service.
Need Help With a Burst Pipe?
A burst or actively leaking pipe can cause additional damage the longer water continues flowing.
EmergencyPlumbersUSA helps homeowners and property managers submit urgent plumbing requests for connection with plumbing professionals serving their area.
Shut off the water if it is safe to do so, then request help.
[Request Help Now]
Or call:
888-419-0690
Tell us what is happening and where the property is located.
Use the request form or call to explain the plumbing problem.
