Water Won't Stop: What Do I Do First?
Shut off the main water valve, switch off electricity to wet areas only if it's safe, turn off the water heater, open the lowest tap to drain the lines, and send an urgent request.
Request a plumberFind the main shut-off
Basement or crawl space wall where the pipe enters, or the meter box near the street. Turn a wheel clockwise or a lever a quarter turn.
Electricity
If water is near outlets, the panel or appliances, don't touch them. Switch off those breakers only if you can stand somewhere dry.
Water heater
With the water off, turn a gas heater to pilot or an electric heater's breaker off so it doesn't heat an empty tank.
Drain the lines
Open the lowest faucet in the house to let the water in the pipes run out, which reduces pressure on the break.
Limit the damage
Move valuables, take photos for insurance, and start mopping. Wet drywall and carpet can grow mold within a couple of days.
Get help
Send an urgent request and say what broke, where, and that the main is off. See emergency plumbing.
What should I tell my insurer?
When it started, what failed, what got wet, and the photos you took. Keep the broken part if the plumber removes it, plus the plumber's written report and receipt. Call early, since many policies expect prompt reporting.
How do I stop it happening again?
Ask the plumber why the pipe failed. Freezing, old galvanized pipe, high water pressure or a failed supply hose each have a different fix, and the right one can stop a repeat.
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