What to Do in the First Hour After a Burst Pipe

A burst pipe can put a lot of water on your floor very quickly. What you do in the first hour has a big effect on how much has to be torn out later. Here's the order that matters.

Minutes 0–5: stop the water

Go to the main shutoff valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. In Tucson-area homes it's usually where the water line enters the house, often at the front wall facing the street, in the garage near the water heater, or in a box in the front yard. If you've never looked for it, our shutoff guide shows the common spots. If the burst is on the hot side, also close the cold-water inlet on top of the water heater.

Minutes 5–10: make it safe

• If water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, don't walk through it. If you can reach the breaker panel while standing on dry ground, switch off the affected circuits.
• If a ceiling is sagging with water, keep everyone out from under it.
• Open a faucet at the lowest point of the house to drain the remaining pressure.

Minutes 10–20: document

Before you mop or move anything, take wide photos of each room, close-ups of the break, and a short video walking through the wet areas. Write down the time you found the leak. Most insurers will want this.

Minutes 20–40: protect what you can

• Move electronics, rugs, papers and photos to a dry room.
• Put foil or plastic under furniture legs so finishes don't stain the carpet.
• Mop or towel up what you can safely reach on hard floors.
• Pull up the corners of area rugs to start them drying.

Minutes 40–60: get help coming

Call a water damage contractor and, if needed, a plumber. Many restoration contractors coordinate the plumbing repair too. When you call a local pro, we connect you with an independent local contractor. You can call your insurer now or right after. Ask what they need and whether they have preferred vendors. You're generally free to choose who you hire, but read your policy.

What not to do

• Don't use a household vacuum on water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fans or lights in a wet ceiling.
• Don't throw away damaged items before they're photographed. Your insurer may want to see them.
• Don't assume it's dry because the surface feels dry. Water wicks into drywall and under flooring.

General information only, not insurance or safety advice. In an emergency involving gas, fire or injury, call 911.

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