What to Do the Moment a Pipe Bursts
A half-inch supply line can put hundreds of gallons into your home in an hour. What you do in the first ten minutes determines whether this is a repair or a renovation.
1. Shut off the main water valve
It is usually where the service line enters the basement, near the meter. Turn it fully clockwise. Everyone in the household should know where this is before an emergency.
2. Cut power to affected areas
If water is anywhere near outlets, panels, or appliances, shut those circuits off at the breaker — but never stand in standing water to reach a panel. If you cannot reach it safely, leave and call an electrician.
3. Drain the system
Open the lowest cold faucets in the house and flush toilets to relieve pressure and empty remaining water away from the break.
4. Document everything
Photograph the break and all damaged areas before cleanup. Insurers ask for this, and it takes 60 seconds.
5. Request plumbing help
Call us or submit an online service request 24/7 across Putnam County. Start extracting water and running fans while you wait — mold begins within 24 to 48 hours.
Need plumbing help in Putnam County?
Call us or submit an online service request anytime.