What to Do in the First 10 Minutes of a Burst Pipe
What to Do in the First 10 Minutes of a Burst Pipe
A burst pipe is one of the few plumbing situations where minutes genuinely matter. Here’s exactly what to do, in order, while help is on the way.
Minute 1-2: Shut Off the Main Water Valve
This is the single most important action. Your main shutoff is usually near the water meter at the street, or where the main line enters the house (garage, exterior wall, or basement). If you don’t know where yours is, this is worth locating today, before an emergency, not during one.
Minute 2-4: Cut Power if Water Is Near Electrical
If water is spreading near outlets, switches, or appliances, shut off electricity to that area at the breaker panel if you can safely reach it. Don’t touch electrical equipment while standing in water.
Minute 4-6: Move What You Can
Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the water if it’s safe to do so. Don’t risk injury moving something heavy alone – a wet floor is a real slip hazard.
Minute 6-8: Photograph the Damage
Once the water is shut off and the immediate safety concerns are handled, take photos before any cleanup starts. This matters for insurance – see our documentation guide for the full picture.
Minute 8-10: Call for Emergency Service
With water shut off, you’ve bought time to make this call calmly rather than in a panic. See our emergency leak detection page for what to expect from our response.
