What to Do After a Pipe Bursts

Stop the flow only if the valve is safe to reach

If you can reach a shutoff without walking through water or approaching electrical hazards, close the nearest fixture valve or the main supply. If you cannot do that safely, leave the area and seek qualified help. A plumber can diagnose and repair the failed line.

Protect the affected area

Keep away from sagging ceilings, wet light fixtures, and unstable materials. Once safe, take photos and note when the leak was discovered. Move small valuables only when doing so does not put you at risk.

Coordinate plumbing and cleanup separately

The pipe repair and water mitigation may be handled by different providers. Ask the plumber what it repaired, then ask a restoration provider to explain which rooms and materials it assessed, what removal or drying is proposed, and how pricing works.

For water removal after a plumbing failure, visit our burst pipe cleanup page.