What should I do if a pipe bursts?
Short answer
Shut off the main water valve immediately, cut power to any wet area at the breaker, open a low faucet to drain the lines, then document the damage and request an emergency plumbing professional.
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Step by step
- Close the main shutoff (meter box, exterior wall, or utility area).
- Open the lowest faucet to relieve pressure in the pipes.
- Switch off breakers serving wet rooms.
- Shut down the water heater if the supply is off.
- Photograph everything, then move water out and start drying.
When to treat it as an emergency
Any break you cannot isolate, any water reaching electrical equipment, and any break affecting a ceiling or multiple rooms should be handled the same night rather than waiting for business hours.
Related questions
Should I try to patch the pipe myself?
Temporary clamps or tape can slow a small leak, but they are not a repair and should never replace shutting off the water.
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