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What Is the First Thing You Should Do When a Pipe Bursts?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Shut off the Water

Locate your main shutoff valve now, before an emergency. It is often near the water meter, in a basement, or where the supply line enters the house. If you live in Bellingham, keep the valve location written down and visible. Knowing it ahead of time saves critical minutes.

Once the pipe bursts, turn that valve clockwise until it stops. Water will stop surging from the break. If you cannot find the valve quickly, go to the water meter outside and shut it off there. Every minute with water flowing increases damage to walls, floors, and belongings.

Drain the System

After the main valve is closed, open the lowest faucet in your home, such as a basement sink or outdoor spigot. This lets remaining water in the pipes drain out and relieves pressure. Also flush toilets to empty their tanks, which prevents overflow.

Turn off the water heater to protect it from damage when the system drains. If you have a whole-house shutoff, the water heater may empty and overheat. Check your water heater's instructions for the correct shutdown procedure. This step is simple but prevents a second problem.

Cut Power If Needed

If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. Only do this if you can reach the panel without standing in water. If you cannot safely reach it, leave the area and wait for a professional.

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Even a small leak near wiring can cause shocks. When you turn off power, unplug electronics that are dry and within reach. Do not touch anything wet while the power is on. Your safety comes before saving items.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of the burst pipe, water spread, and damaged items before any cleanup begins. This record helps with your insurance claim later. Capture wide shots and close-ups of the break and soaked materials.

Write down the time you noticed the leak and when you shut off the water. Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you buy, like buckets or towels. This documentation is useful whether you file a claim or handle repairs yourself. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Call Local Water Damage Pros

After stopping the water and ensuring safety, contact local water damage pros for burst pipe cleanup. They have industrial pumps and dryers that remove moisture from walls and floors faster than household fans. Acting quickly reduces the chance of mold growth.

The pros usually assess the extent of the damage, remove soaked materials, and dry the area thoroughly. They may also help with pipe leak cleanup if the break caused flooding in finished spaces. You can also request a water damage inspection to check hidden moisture.

Costs for burst pipe cleanup often range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the damage extent and drying time. The final price depends on the size of the affected area, the type of flooring, and how long water sat. Ask for a clear breakdown before work starts.

  • Shut off the main water valve first
  • Open a low faucet to drain pipes
  • Turn off electricity if water is near outlets
  • Photograph and video the damage
  • Move valuables to a dry area
  • Keep records of the incident time

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to dry out after a pipe bursts?

Drying time varies widely. Small leaks may dry in two to three days with professional equipment. Larger floods can take a week or more, especially if water soaked into drywall or insulation. The pros use moisture meters to confirm everything is dry.

Can I stay in my home during cleanup?

It depends on the extent of the damage. If only a small area is wet, you may stay as long as power is safe and mold does not start. For major flooding, you might need to leave while the pros remove wet materials and run heavy drying equipment.

What should I do with wet furniture and belongings?

Move items to a dry area if you can do so safely. Remove rugs, cushions, and electronics from wet floors. Do not throw anything away until you document it for insurance. The pros may be able to dry some items, but porous things like mattresses often need replacing.

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