What Should I Do First When a Pipe Bursts?

The very first step is to stop the water. Locate your main shutoff valve, usually near the water meter or where the main line enters the house. Turn it clockwise until it stops. If you cannot find it, check the basement, crawlspace, or near the water heater. Knowing where this valve is before an emergency can save valuable time.

Once the water is off, open a cold faucet on the lowest floor to drain remaining pressure. This helps reduce further leaking. Also, flush toilets to empty the tanks and reduce the amount of water that might still be in the system.

Move furniture, rugs, and valuables to a dry area. Lift items off the floor with blocks or plastic sheets. Remove books, papers, and electronics from the path of water. The faster you act, the less you lose. For heavy items that cannot be moved, place aluminum foil or plastic under the legs to slow water absorption.

Take photos of the damage for your records. Do not throw anything away until you check with your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep a list of damaged items and their approximate age, as this can help with the claims process.

After you stop the water and remove what you can, contact local water damage pros. They have the equipment to dry structures thoroughly and prevent mold. They can also identify hidden moisture in walls and under floors. The pros use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers that are more powerful than household fans.

The pros will assess the damage and recommend next steps, such as removing drywall or flooring. You can also schedule a water damage inspection to understand the full scope. Act quickly, as mold can start growing within days. Delaying the drying process can lead to more extensive repairs and higher costs.