Burst Pipes - Advice for Householders
Steps to take when you have a burst pipe emergency.
Burst Pipe Emergency
A burst pipe is classed as a water emergency - it can cause serious damage to your home's structure and electrical wiring. The following steps describe what you should do as soon as you discover a burst pipe:
- Turn off the water supply. The stop cock is generally located underneath the sink. Make sure that you know where it is and leave the space around it free from household items to permit easy access.
- Drain the system by turning on all your cold taps.
- If water has been leaking through for some time and the ceilings are bulging please be careful as rooms may not be safe to enter. If you notice the leak quickly you can catch dripping water in buckets. Punch a hole in the ceiling to let water out if it starts to bulge.
- Turn off water heating systems - switch off the central heating, immersion heater and any other water heating systems. If the central heating uses solid fuel, let this die out. Once water heating has shut down, turn on the hot taps to help drain the system.
- Turn off the electrics - if water leaks near your electrics or electrical appliances, switch off the mains immediately. If it is wet, don't touch them!
- Call a professional to repair the damage - electrical wiring damaged by water can be very dangerous - you will need to call in a professional is this happens.
- Find a qualified and reliable plumber to repair the burst or frozen pipe(s)
To protect your home against unforeseen problems that can prove very expensive, you should ensure that you have appropriate insurance cover.
Remember, if you have a burst pipe or frozen supply, to be careful about the use of heating systems, washing machines and other water-dependent appliances and facilities.
If you have a problem or concern, contact a qualified plumber for advice.
