What to Do When Your Pipes Burst: A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide

karney plumbing
May 27
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

A burst pipe is every homeowner's nightmare. Whether caused by freezing temperatures, aging plumbing, or sudden pressure changes, a burst pipe can result in severe water damage, costly repairs, and major stress.

But the good news? Knowing what to do immediately can minimize damage and help you get your home back to normal faster.

This step-by-step emergency guide will walk you through exactly what to do when your pipes burst—so you can stay calm, take action, and protect your property.

🚨 Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Supply

Time is critical. As soon as you discover a burst pipe, locate and shut off your main water valve. This will stop water from continuing to flow through your plumbing system and causing more damage.

Most main shut-off valves are located in basements, crawl spaces, garages, or near the water meter.
Turn the valve clockwise to close it.
If you live in an apartment, contact building management or maintenance immediately.

⚡ Step 2: Turn Off Electricity (If Needed)

If water is leaking near electrical outlets, appliances, or your fuse box, turn off the electricity in that area to avoid the risk of electric shock or fire.

Use your home's circuit breaker to shut off power to the affected area.
If you’re unsure, wait for a professional—never touch wet electrical components.

🪣 Step 3: Drain the Faucets and Pipes

Once the water is off, drain any remaining water from the pipes to relieve pressure and reduce further leaking.

Open all cold water faucets in your home.
Flush your toilets.
If your heating system uses hot water, turn off the boiler or water heater, and open hot water faucets too.

This helps reduce the chances of additional pipe bursts or leaks.

🧼 Step 4: Clean Up the Water ASAP

Standing water can lead to mold, structural damage, and ruined belongings. Begin cleanup immediately using:

Towels, mops, and buckets for small spills
A wet/dry vacuum for larger puddles
Fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area faster

If the damage is severe or affects walls and flooring, you may need professional water damage restoration.

📸 Step 5: Document the Damage for Insurance

Before you throw anything out or make repairs:

Take photos and videos of all affected areas.
Document damaged furniture, electronics, and belongings.
Keep receipts for any cleanup or emergency repair expenses.

This documentation will be valuable when filing a claim with your homeowners' insurance provider.

🔧 Step 6: Call a Licensed Plumber

Once the immediate crisis is under control, it’s time to call a licensed plumber to:

Locate the source of the burst
Repair or replace the damaged pipe
Inspect your plumbing system for other vulnerabilities

Avoid DIY pipe repair unless you have experience—improper fixes can lead to more problems later.

🛡️ Step 7: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your home insurance provider as soon as possible. They’ll guide you through:

The claims process
What’s covered and what isn’t
Whether they’ll send out an adjuster or recommend contractors

Some policies cover burst pipes and resulting water damage, but coverage may vary depending on the cause.

🧊 Bonus: Preventing Future Burst Pipes

After repairs, take proactive steps to avoid future pipe bursts, especially during cold months:

Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces
Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air around under-sink pipes
Let faucets drip during freezing weather to keep water moving
Install a smart water leak detector for early warning

✅ Final Thoughts

A burst pipe can feel overwhelming, but acting quickly can limit damage, save money, and speed up recovery. Keep this guide handy, and remember:

If you're dealing with a burst pipe or want to safeguard your plumbing, Karney Plumbing is just a phone call away. Our licensed plumbers are available for emergency repairs and preventive inspections across Tulsa, Oklahoma.