What to Do in the First 60 Minutes After a Burst Pipe

What you do in the first 60 minutes after a pipe burst has more impact on the outcome of a water loss than almost anything else. The two priorities are stopping the source and documenting the scene before anyone starts cleanup.

Step-by-step

1. If standing water is touching outlets, lamps, or appliances, do not enter the area. Call your power company or an electrician.
2. Shut off the main water supply to the home. The shutoff is usually near where the supply line enters the property or at the meter at the curb.
3. Turn off the water heater after the main is closed, especially for tank-style heaters, to prevent damage to the unit.
4. Photograph and video the scene from multiple angles before moving anything.
5. Move valuables, electronics, and important documents to a dry area.
6. Open windows if outdoor humidity is low and the weather allows, and turn the air conditioning to a moderate setting to assist drying.
7. Call your insurance carrier to open a claim. Write down the claim number, adjuster name, and time of call.
8. Call a professional restoration company so extraction and drying can start as soon as possible.

What to avoid

• Tearing out drywall or flooring before the carrier and the restoration company have seen the damage.
• Plugging in vacuums or wet-dry vacs in standing water.
• Throwing away the failed part. Keep it for the carrier to inspect.
• Posting photos publicly before talking to your carrier.