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 flood your home in minutes, damaging walls, flooring, furniture, electrical systems, and personal belongings. Knowing exactly what to do when a pipe bursts can significantly reduce damage, repair costs, and downtime.

Whether it’s a sudden rupture, a slow split that finally gives way, or a pipe damaged by corrosion or pressure, acting fast is critical. This guide walks you step-by-step through what to do if you have a burst pipe, how to limit water damage, when to call a plumber, and how to prevent it from happening again.

Signs You Have a Burst Pipe

Sometimes a burst pipe is obvious — water pouring out, ceilings collapsing, or flooding across floors. Other times, it can be more subtle.

Common signs include:

• Sudden loss of water pressure
• Water pooling on floors, carpets, or outside walls
• Damp patches on ceilings or walls
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Unusual sounds like hissing, banging, or dripping inside walls
• A sudden spike in your water bill

If you notice any of these signs, treat it as urgent and act immediately.

Step 1: Turn Off the Main Water Supply Immediately

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

Your main water shut-off valve is usually located:

• At the front of your property near the water meter
• Under the kitchen sink
• In a laundry or garage
• Outside near an external wall

Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply completely. If you live in a unit or apartment, there may be a shared isolation valve — contact building management if needed.

Stopping the water quickly can save thousands of dollars in damage.

Step 2: Turn Off Electricity If Water Is Near Power Sources

If water is spreading near electrical outlets, appliances, or light fittings, safety comes first.

• Turn off power at the main switchboard if it’s safe to do so
• Do not step into standing water if electricity may be live
• Avoid touching wet appliances or power points

If you’re unsure, leave the area and wait for professional help.

Step 3: Drain Remaining Water From the Pipes

After shutting off the main water supply, relieve pressure and drain leftover water.

• Open all cold taps in the house
• Flush toilets
• Turn on outdoor taps

This helps minimise further leakage and reduces pressure on the damaged pipe.

Step 4: Locate the Burst Pipe (If Safe)

If the burst pipe is visible — under a sink, in a ceiling cavity, or outside — take note of its location. Do not attempt repairs unless you are confident and the damage is minor.

Burst pipes are commonly found:

• In ceilings or walls
• Under sinks
• In hot water systems
• Underground or outside
• In older galvanised or copper pipes

If the pipe is hidden, signs like water stains or bulging plaster can help identify the general area.

Step 5: Contain and Remove Excess Water

The faster you remove water, the less damage it causes.

• Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum
• Mop up standing water
• Move furniture, rugs, and belongings away from affected areas
• Lift wet carpets if possible to allow airflow

If water has soaked into walls or flooring, professional drying may be required.

Step 6: Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber

A burst pipe requires professional repair. Temporary fixes rarely last and can lead to further damage.

A licensed plumber will:

• Identify the cause of the burst
• Repair or replace the damaged section
• Check for additional weak points in the system
• Test water pressure and system integrity

If the burst happens after hours, on weekends, or during holidays, call an emergency plumbing service immediately.

Step 7: Document the Damage for Insurance

If water damage is extensive, document everything before repairs begin where possible.

• Take clear photos and videos of affected areas
• Note the time and date of the incident
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs and clean-up
• Contact your home insurance provider promptly

Early documentation can help speed up insurance claims and avoid disputes.

Common Causes of Burst Pipes

Understanding why pipes burst can help prevent it happening again.

Ageing Pipes

Older pipes made from galvanised steel or ageing copper can corrode internally, weakening over time.

High Water Pressure

Excessive pressure places stress on pipe joints and fittings, increasing the risk of rupture.

Tree Root Invasion

Roots can crack underground pipes, causing blockages and eventual failure.

Temperature Changes

Rapid temperature fluctuations can cause pipes to expand and contract, leading to splits.

Poor Installation

Incorrect pipe sizing, inadequate support, or substandard materials can all contribute to bursts.

Temporary Fixes (Only If Absolutely Necessary)

If you must stop a small leak temporarily while waiting for a plumber:

• Wrap the pipe tightly with a rubber patch and hose clamp
• Use plumbing repair tape as a short-term measure
• Place a bucket underneath to catch drips

These are not permanent solutions and should only be used to limit damage until professional repairs are made.

What Not To Do After a Burst Pipe

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Do not ignore minor leaks — they often get worse
• Do not turn water back on before repairs are complete
• Do not attempt complex repairs without proper tools or licensing
• Do not delay calling a plumber to “see if it settles”

Delaying action almost always leads to higher repair costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Burst Pipe?

The cost of repairing a burst pipe depends on several factors:

• Location of the pipe (accessible vs behind walls)
• Extent of damage
• Pipe material
• Time of repair (after-hours emergency call-outs)

Minor repairs may cost a few hundred dollars, while major bursts involving wall or ceiling removal can run into the thousands. Water damage restoration costs are often additional.

Preventing Burst Pipes in the Future

While not all burst pipes are preventable, proactive maintenance significantly reduces risk.

Have Regular Plumbing Inspections

A licensed plumber can identify early signs of corrosion, leaks, or pressure issues.

Monitor Water Pressure

Install a pressure-limiting valve if pressure is consistently high.

Replace Old Pipework

Upgrading ageing pipes before failure is far cheaper than emergency repairs.

Watch for Warning Signs

Address slow leaks, discoloured water, or unusual noises immediately.

Know Your Shut-Off Valve Location

Every household member should know where the main water shut-off is located.

When a Burst Pipe Is an Emergency

A burst pipe is considered an emergency if:

• Water cannot be isolated
• Flooding is rapid or extensive
• Electrical systems are at risk
• Structural elements are affected

In these cases, immediate professional help is essential to protect your home and safety.

Final Thoughts

A burst pipe can happen at any time — day or night — but knowing what to do can make a huge difference. Acting quickly, shutting off the water, prioritising safety, and calling a licensed plumber can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs.

If you ever suspect a pipe has burst or notice early warning signs, don’t wait. Early intervention is always cheaper, safer, and far less stressful than dealing with a full-scale plumbing emergency.