Burst Pipe Emergency: What to Do in the First 30 Minutes

A burst pipe can release gallons of water per minute. In a Los Angeles home, that water can spread from the burst location into adjacent rooms, through floor cavities, and down into lower levels faster than most people expect. The first 30 minutes determine how much damage the home takes.

Go to the main water shut-off valve and turn it off. If you do not know where it is, check near the water meter outside the home, in the garage, in a utility closet, or near the water heater. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops.

If the main shut-off is stuck or you cannot locate it, turn off water at the fixture shut-off if one exists near the burst location. Then call for immediately and tell the dispatcher the main shut-off is not working — the plumber can prioritize getting water turned off when they arrive.

After shutting off the main, open every cold-water faucet in the home — start with the lowest faucet and work up. This drains standing water from the pipes and reduces pressure on the burst section. Flush every toilet once after the water is off to empty the tanks.

If water is spraying near electrical outlets, switches, appliances, or the electrical panel, do not touch anything wet. Go to the electrical panel and shut off power to the affected area if you can do so safely from a dry location. If the panel itself is wet or you are unsure, call an electrician or wait for the plumber to assess.

Move furniture, rugs, electronics, and personal items away from standing water. Place buckets or towels under active drips if water is still coming from the pipe after the main is shut off — residual water in the lines can continue dripping for several minutes.

If you have a wet/dry vacuum, use it to remove standing water from hard surfaces. Do not use a regular household vacuum on wet surfaces.

Take photos and videos of the burst pipe, any standing water, and affected areas before you clean up. This documentation helps the plumber understand the original problem and may be needed for insurance purposes.

Once the water is off and the immediate risk is controlled, . Be ready to describe:

In Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, burst pipes are most often caused by:

A plumber can identify what caused the burst and recommend whether a section repair is enough or whether the pipe material and condition suggest a larger replacement.