What to Do If You Have a Burst Pipe

A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Water can quickly cause serious damage to walls, ceilings, flooring and furniture if it's not dealt with quickly.

The good news is that acting fast can minimise the damage while you wait for a plumber to arrive. Here's what you should do if you discover a burst pipe in your home.

1. Turn Off Your Water Supply

The first and most important step is to stop the flow of water.

Locate your property's internal stop tap and turn it clockwise until it's fully closed. This will stop more water escaping and help prevent further damage.

If you're unsure where your stop tap is, it's worth finding it before you ever need it in an emergency.

2. Turn Off Your Heating System

If the burst pipe is connected to your central heating, switch your boiler and heating system off.

This helps prevent unnecessary pressure in the system and reduces the risk of further leaks.

3. Drain the Remaining Water

Open all cold taps around your home.

Then flush the toilets to help empty any remaining water from the pipework.

If the leak involves your heating system, bleeding a downstairs radiator can also help release pressure.

4. Protect Your Home

Move furniture, electrical items and valuables away from the affected area.

Use towels, buckets or a wet vacuum to collect as much water as possible and reduce damage while waiting for repairs.

5. Turn Off Electricity if Necessary

If water has reached electrical sockets, switches or appliances, switch off the electricity at the consumer unit only if it's safe to do so.

Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water.

6. Find the Source of the Leak

If it's safe, try to identify where the pipe has burst.

Common places include:

• Under kitchen sinks

• Bathroom pipework

• Loft spaces

• Utility rooms

• Behind washing machines

• Outdoor pipes during freezing weather

Knowing where the leak is can help your plumber prepare before arriving.

7. Don't Attempt Major Repairs Yourself

Temporary repair tape may slow a small leak, but it's not a permanent solution.

Burst pipes should always be repaired properly to avoid future leaks and further damage.

8. Prevent Burst Pipes in Winter

Many burst pipes happen during freezing weather.

To reduce the risk:

• Insulate exposed pipework.

• Keep your heating on low during very cold nights.

• Disconnect outdoor hoses.

• Repair small leaks before winter arrives.

A little prevention can save thousands of pounds in water damage.

9. Call a Professional Plumber

Once the water is under control, contact a qualified plumber as soon as possible.

Professional repairs ensure the damaged section of pipe is replaced correctly and your plumbing system is fully tested before the water is turned back on.

Need Help With a Burst Pipe?

At Bathroom to Boilers, we provide reliable plumbing repairs for homeowners and landlords across Ingleby Barwick, Stockton-on-Tees, Yarm, Thornaby, Middlesbrough, Billingham, Norton, Eaglescliffe, Redcar, Marske and the surrounding areas.

Whether you're dealing with a burst pipe, leaking tap, faulty toilet or general plumbing problem, we're here to help with honest advice, quality workmanship and a friendly, reliable service.

Get in Touch Today

📞 Call: 01642 205028 📧 Email: info@bathroomtoboilers.co.uk

Need advice or a free quote? Contact Bathroom to Boilers today and we'll be happy to help.