What should I do first if a pipe bursts?

Turn off the main water supply immediately, open taps to drain remaining water and move belongings away from the affected area.

Can a burst pipe fix itself?

No. A burst pipe requires repair or replacement. Temporary measures may reduce damage but will not resolve the underlying problem.

How much does it cost to repair a burst pipe?

Emergency burst pipe repairs typically cost between £150 and £500+, depending on the damage, location and complexity of the repair.

Who repairs burst pipes?

A plumber is usually the right professional for burst pipe repairs. Larger water damage may also require specialist restoration services.

Are burst pipes covered by home insurance?

Many home insurance policies cover sudden water damage, but coverage varies. Check your policy and contact your insurer promptly.

Can I fix a burst pipe myself?

You can stop the immediate damage by shutting off the water supply, but pipe repairs should usually be completed by a qualified plumber.

How do I know where my stopcock is?

Stopcocks are commonly found under the kitchen sink, in an airing cupboard, under the stairs, or near the front of the property where the water supply enters. Locate yours before an emergency happens.

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Homeowner Hub › Emergency Home Repairs › Burst Pipes

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe can quickly cause flooding and expensive damage. Learn the immediate steps to take, common causes, repair costs and how to find a trusted emergency plumber.

Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by: The TopTenTrades Editorial Team

Quick Answer

1.Turn off your main water supply
2.Open taps to drain remaining water
3.Move furniture away from affected areas
4.Switch off electricity if water reaches sockets
5.Contact an emergency plumber

Problem type: Emergency plumbing
Typical trade: Plumber
Urgency: Immediate
Typical repair time: 1–3 hours
Typical cost: £150–£500+
Risk if ignored: Water damage, mould, structural damage

What To Do

1.Turn off your main water supply at the stopcock to stop further flooding.
2.Open cold taps around the house to drain remaining water from the pipes.
3.Move furniture, electronics and belongings away from the affected area.
4.If water has reached electrical sockets or fittings, switch off the electricity at the consumer unit.
5.Mop up standing water and use towels or a wet vacuum to limit further damage.
6.Contact an emergency plumber to assess and repair the burst pipe.

Signs You May Have This Problem

•Sudden loss of water pressure
•Water stains on ceilings or walls
•Damp patches that appear without an obvious cause
•Unusual banging or gurgling noises in the pipework
•A noticeably higher water bill
•The sound of running water when all taps are off

Common Causes

•Frozen pipes that expand and crack in cold weather
•Corrosion in ageing metal pipework
•High water pressure putting strain on joints and fittings
•Poor installation or substandard pipe fittings
•Physical damage from building work or shifting foundations

Burst Pipes: Typical Costs

Repair	Typical Cost (UK)
Emergency callout	£80–£150
Minor pipe repair	£150–£300
Replacing damaged pipework	£300–£700+
Water damage repairs	Varies significantly

Prices vary depending on location, accessibility, materials required and whether damage has spread beyond the pipe itself.

When Should You Call An Emergency Professional?

check_circleWater cannot be stopped at the stopcock
check_circleElectrical systems are affected
check_circleWater is entering ceilings or walls
check_circleThere is significant flooding
check_circleThe property is at risk of further damage

How To Prevent This

•Insulate exposed pipes, especially in lofts, garages and under floors
•Keep heating running on low during freezing weather, even when away
•Repair small leaks early before they worsen
•Know where your stopcock is located and check it turns freely
•Have ageing pipework inspected periodically by a plumber

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