What to do when a pipe bursts

First: stop or reduce the water

• Turn off the main internal stop tap if it is safe to reach. It is often under the kitchen sink, in a utility cupboard or near where the water supply enters the property.
• Open the cold taps to drain water remaining in the pipework. Do not run a hot-water system that may have lost its supply.
• If the leak is from a clearly identified appliance or fixture with its own working isolation valve, turn that valve off as well.

Protect people, electrics and the building

• Keep people away from wet ceilings and any area where plaster is bulging or sagging.
• Do not touch wet switches, sockets, lights or appliances. Only isolate the electricity if the consumer unit is dry and safely accessible.
• Use containers and towels only where it is safe. Move possessions away and photograph the damage for your insurer.

What to tell the plumber

Give the postcode, explain where the water is coming from and say whether the main supply has been isolated. A clear photo or short video on WhatsApp can help AFS prepare before travelling.

If you cannot stop active water, water is reaching electrics, or a ceiling is becoming unsafe, treat it as an emergency rather than waiting for a routine appointment.