Guide
What to do about a burst pipe
Short answer
Turn off the water at the inside stop tap at once. Turn it clockwise. If water is near electrics, switch them off at the consumer unit. Turn off the heating and open the taps to drain the pipes. Then call a plumber. A burst pipe inside your boundary is your responsibility to repair.
What to do now
Stop the water first, then make the home safe. Follow these steps.
- Turn off the inside stop tap. Turn it clockwise until it stops.
- If water is near sockets, lights or the consumer unit, switch off the electricity at the mains.
- Turn off the heating and the boiler.
- Open all the taps to drain the water left in the pipes.
- Soak up water with towels, and move valuables away.
- Call a plumber. Check if your home insurance covers leaks and bursts.
Find your stop tap
The inside stop tap is usually just after the water pipe enters the house. Thames Water lists the kitchen sink cupboard, an airing cupboard, under the stairs and near the front door as common places. It can also be in a garage, utility room, bathroom or cellar.
Find it now, before you need it. Turn it a little to check it moves. If it is stiff, do not force it. A plumber can repair it or fit a new one.
There is also an outside stop valve, usually near your boundary under a small cover. Use it only in an emergency.
Who pays for the repair
You pay for repairs to pipes inside your property boundary. This includes the supply pipe from the boundary into the home.
If the burst is in the street or on the water company’s side, call your water company. Your bill names it. Thames Water says that once a leak on your side is confirmed, you must arrange the repair within four weeks.
If you rent, tell your landlord. The landlord is usually responsible for the repair.
After the repair
Turn the water back on slowly, and check the repair for drips. Run each tap until the air clears.
Damp walls and floors can take weeks to dry. Ask your insurer before you replace floors or plaster.
If the pipe burst in the cold, lag the other pipes in the same space. Our guide to frozen pipes explains how.
Questions
Which way do I turn the stop tap?
Clockwise to turn the water off. It may take a few turns. Water can still run from the taps for a few minutes as the pipes drain.
Can I use the water company’s outside valve?
Only in an emergency. It is usually near your boundary under a small cover. The inside stop tap is the one to use first.
Is a burst pipe an emergency?
Yes, if water is pouring or near electrics. Turn off the water and the electrics, then call a plumber. A slow drip can usually wait for a normal visit.