A burst pipe or major leak is stressful, but a few calm steps in the first couple of minutes can make a real difference to how much damage it causes.
Every home has a main stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs cupboard, or near where the water pipe enters the property. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply and stop the leak from getting worse while you wait for help.
Once the stopcock is off, open the cold taps around the house to drain any water still in the pipes. This reduces the amount of water still able to leak out and eases pressure in the system.
Water and electrics don’t mix. If a leak is anywhere near sockets, switches or light fittings, turn off the electricity at the consumer unit if it’s safe to reach, and keep clear of the area until it’s been checked.
Towels, buckets and anything else to hand can help limit water damage to floors, ceilings below, and furniture while you wait.
Once the immediate risk is under control, call us. We offer emergency call-outs across Greater London, with no call-out fee during normal working hours, and we’ll give you an honest idea of timing based on where you are.
The best time to find your stopcock is before an emergency happens, not during one. Take a minute now to locate it and make sure it turns freely, so you’re not searching for it in a panic with water pooling around your feet.
If you’re ever unsure whether something is a genuine emergency, call us. We’ll tell you honestly whether it needs an urgent visit or can wait for a booked appointment.
Tell us what you need and we'll come back with an honest, no-obligation price. Prefer to talk? Call 020 3123 4567.
Takes under a minute, no obligation.