Emergencies
What to do when a pipe bursts
Published by Prime Plumbing · Updated · How we write our guides
Short answer
Close the main water shutoff valve first. Then open the lowest faucet in the house to drain the lines, switch off electricity to any wet area if the panel is dry and safe to reach, move belongings out of the water, take photos for insurance and call a plumber. Do not turn the water back on until the pipe is repaired.
What should I do in the first 10 minutes?
- Close the main shutoff valve, usually where the water line enters the house
- Open a faucet on the lowest floor, then flush toilets, to empty the pipes
- Turn off the water heater so it does not heat an empty tank
- Switch off breakers for wet rooms only if you can reach the panel without standing in water
- Catch drips with buckets and move furniture, rugs and electronics
What should I do after the water has stopped?
- Photograph and video the damage before cleaning up
- Call your insurer; sudden pipe bursts are commonly covered, but policies differ
- Start drying: mop, run fans and a dehumidifier, and open cabinet doors
- Poke a small hole in a sagging ceiling bulge to drain it into a bucket, if it is safe to reach
What should I avoid?
- Using a torch or heat gun on a frozen or split pipe
- Turning the water back on to test a tape or clamp patch
- Touching outlets, cords or appliances that are wet
- Leaving wet drywall and insulation in place for days; mold can start within 24 to 48 hours
Why did the pipe burst?
Freezing is the most common cause: ice blocks the pipe and pressure builds between the blockage and a closed faucet. Corrosion in old galvanized or copper pipe, water pressure above 80 psi and failed fittings are the other usual reasons. Knowing the cause tells the plumber whether one repair is enough.
When should I call a plumber?
Call as soon as the water is off. The plumber cuts out the split section, replaces it, checks the rest of the run for more cracks and pressure tests the repair before any wall is closed. If the main valve will not stop the flow, call the water utility to shut off at the meter.
Common questions
Can I use the toilets and sinks after a pipe bursts?
Drains still work, but there is no water supply once the main is off. You can flush a toilet by pouring a bucket of water into the bowl.
How long does it take to fix a burst pipe?
An exposed pipe can often be repaired in an hour or two. A pipe inside a wall, ceiling or slab takes longer because of the access and the drying that follows.
Further reading from official sources
- Frozen Pipes (American Red Cross)
- A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (US EPA)
This guide is general information for homeowners, not a substitute for an on-site assessment. Plumbing codes and permit rules vary by city and state.