What DIY Steps Can I Take Immediately After a Pipe Bursts?

Your first move is to shut off the main water valve, usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home. If you have not located this valve before, find it now and write down its location. Turning it off stops the burst from flooding more of your house.

After the main valve is closed, open all cold water faucets, including sinks, tubs, and outdoor spigots. This drains pressure and any remaining water from the pipes. Flush toilets to empty the tanks, and turn off your water heater to prevent damage if it runs dry.

• Locate your main shutoff valve before an emergency
• Turn the valve clockwise to close it fully
• Open all faucets to drain the system
• Flush toilets to empty tank water
• Turn off the water heater
• Keep the valve location written down for future use

Start removing water as soon as it is safe. Use buckets, a mop, towels, or a wet-dry vacuum to pull up as much water as you can. Work from the farthest point of the leak toward the exit to avoid spreading water further.

For larger amounts, a utility pump can help if you have one. Do not use a regular household vacuum. The faster you remove water, the less chance it has to soak into drywall, flooring, and wood structures.

• Use a wet-dry vacuum for small puddles
• Wring towels into a bucket outside
• Move furniture to a dry area
• Lift rugs and carpets off the floor
• Place plastic sheeting under furniture legs
• Open windows to help air out the space

Once the water is gone, speed up drying. Open windows and doors if the humidity outside is lower than inside. Use fans and a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air and surfaces. Point fans at wet walls, floors, and baseboards.

Remove wet drywall and insulation if they are soaked, as they can hold water and grow mold. Cut away wet carpet padding. The longer materials stay wet, the more damage they cause. Even after you do the initial cleanup, hidden moisture can remain.