How do I stop a burst pipe flooding my house?

Turn the water off at the stopcock straight away, then open the cold taps to drain the system. Switch off the water heating and keep clear of any electrics near the water.

Where is my stopcock?

Most often under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs toilet, or where the main water pipe enters the house. It's worth finding yours before an emergency.

Who fixes a burst pipe?

A plumber. Once the water's off and the flooding has stopped, call one to repair or replace the pipe before the supply goes back on.

DG Plumbing Heating Exeter · Devon

What to do the moment a pipe bursts

A burst pipe does damage fast. A few quick steps limit it before the plumber gets to you.

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Act fast Limit the damage Local callout

A burst pipe is stressful, and water does a lot of damage quickly, so it pays to know the steps before it ever happens. Here's what to do straight away.

The steps, in order

Turn the water off at the stopcock. This stops the flow. It's usually under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs loo, or where the mains pipe enters the house — find yours now, before you need it.
Turn off the water heating. Switch off the heating at the boiler or programmer.
Open the taps. Running the cold taps drains the remaining water out of the system and away from the leak.
Protect the room. Move valuables, soak up water, and keep well clear of any electrics near the water — switch them off at the fuse box if it's safe to.
Call a plumber. Get it repaired properly before you turn the water back on.

Getting it fixed

Once the water's off and the flooding's stopped, Declan Gent can find the burst, repair or replace the damaged pipe and check the rest of the run. Dec covers burst pipe repair and plumbing emergencies across Exeter and Devon — a local plumber, not a call-centre.

Free quote, no obligation

Need a plumber quick?

Call or text Dec on 07493 772609, or send a few details and he’ll get back to you.

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