Burst pipe or leak? What to do right now

The first few minutes matter most. Here’s how to stop the water, stay safe and limit the damage while a plumber is on the way.

Water and electrics don’t mix

If water is near sockets, lights or the fuse box, don’t touch them while you’re standing in water. Switch the electrics off at the fuse box only if you can reach it safely and your hands are dry.

Do this first

1
Turn off the water at the stopcock
It’s usually under the kitchen sink, where the water pipe comes into your home. In flats it can be in a cupboard, the hallway or by the front door. Turn it clockwise to close it.
2
Switch off electrics near the water
If the water is close to anything electrical, turn off the power at the fuse box, as long as you can do it safely.
3
Turn off the boiler or water heater
Then open your cold taps to drain the water left in the pipes. Flushing the toilets helps too.
4
Catch the water
Put down buckets and towels and move valuables out of the way. If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep out from under it.
5
Take photos
Photograph the leak and any damage before you clear up. Your insurer will want to see them.

If you live in a flat

Let the neighbours below know, as the water may reach them first.
Tell your landlord, letting agent or building manager as soon as you can.
If the water is coming from the flat above and nobody answers, contact the building manager or your landlord.

Frozen pipes

If a pipe has frozen but not burst, turn off the stopcock and thaw it slowly with a hairdryer on a low setting or a hot water bottle, starting at the tap end. Never use a blowtorch or any naked flame.

Getting it fixed

For an emergency like a burst pipe, Relay aims to have a vetted local plumber with you within the hour, day or night. It’s £95 including the first hour, then £80 an hour on weekdays, or £160 for the first hour, then £110 an hour in the evenings and at weekends, including VAT and fees.

Once it’s fixed, find out where your stopcock is and check it turns, so you’re ready next time.