What to Do When a Pipe Bursts

A burst pipe can release several gallons of water a minute. What you do in the first ten minutes decides whether you are drying out a closet or replacing floors. Here is the order of operations.

Step by Step

1. Shut off the main water valve. Look where the water line enters the house: in the garage, a utility closet, under a sink on an exterior wall, or in the crawlspace. Turn it clockwise until it stops. If it will not budge, shut the curb valve in the meter box near the street.
2. Turn off electricity to any area where water is near outlets, appliances, or the panel. Do not stand in water to reach a breaker.
3. Shut down the water heater. Turn off the breaker (electric) or set the gas valve to pilot.
4. Drain the lines. Open the lowest faucet in the house and flush toilets to relieve pressure.
5. Move valuables and start drying. Mop, use towels and a wet-vac, and run fans. Pull back wet rugs.
6. Document the damage. Photos and video before cleanup help with insurance claims.
7. Call a plumber to repair the pipe and check for other weak points, and call a water mitigation company if water soaked into walls, ceilings, or flooring.

Why Pipes Burst

In North Alabama, the most common cause is freezing. Water expands as it freezes and builds pressure in the pipe, which often splits away from the ice itself. Pipes also fail from corrosion, high water pressure, and old fittings or supply lines giving out.

What It Costs

A straightforward pipe repair often runs $150–$600. Emergency or after-hours rates are higher, and damage repair to drywall, flooring, and cabinets is usually the larger expense. That is why shutting off the water fast matters.

Prevent the Next One

• Know where your main shut-off is, and make sure it turns
• Insulate pipes in garages, crawlspaces, and exterior walls
• Replace rubber washer and dishwasher supply lines with braided steel
• Consider a water pressure regulator if your pressure runs above 80 psi
• See how to prevent frozen pipes