Immediately after a pipe bursts, close the main water valve, open a low faucet to drain the remaining water, and stay away from wet electrical areas. Then start removing water and keep the main shut until the pipe has been repaired. The first few minutes make the biggest difference in how much damage you face.
Close the Main Valve
Go straight to the main shutoff. It is usually near the water meter, where the main line comes into the home. Turn a round handle clockwise until it stops, or turn a lever so it sits across the pipe. If you cannot find it or it will not move, call for help immediately. In a multi-unit building, let the super know.
Drain the Pipes
The pipes still hold water after the main is closed. Opening a cold-water faucet on the lowest floor lets that water drain out instead of through the break. If a hot water pipe burst, turn off the water heater as well.
Stay Safe
Do not walk through water near outlets, cords, or appliances. If you can reach the breaker panel from a dry spot, shut off power to the wet rooms. If not, stay out of those areas until help arrives.
Start Cleaning Up
Soak up standing water with towels and mops. Move furniture and valuables to a dry room. Pull up wet rugs. Once the power is confirmed safe, run fans to help dry the space. Take photos of the damage and the broken pipe for your insurance company.
Avoid wrapping the pipe with tape and turning the water back on. Temporary patches can fail under full pressure and cause a second leak.
Repairing the burst section properly is the safest way to get the water back on. If more of your pipes are the same age, planning their replacement can prevent a repeat. Call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.