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What to Do When a Pipe Bursts in Your House
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A pipe just burst. Water is going everywhere and your heart is going faster. Breathe. You have about 30 minutes to turn a possible disaster into a manageable mess, and it starts with six steps, in order.
Pipe burst right now? Call (302) 400-8531, 24/7. We stay on dispatch while you follow these steps.
(302) 400-8531The 6 Steps, in Order
Shut off the water
Find your main shutoff valve, usually in the basement or crawl space on the wall facing the street. A gate valve has a round handle and turns clockwise. A ball valve has a lever and turns perpendicular to the pipe. If you cannot find it, call your water utility for an emergency shutoff at the meter.
Turn off electricity to affected areas at the breaker panel
Water near outlets is an electrocution risk. Do not touch the panel if you are standing in water.
Stop the spread
Move valuables, electronics and furniture above the water line if safe.
Do not use household vacuums on water
Call a professional restoration company immediately
Document everything with photos and video before cleanup begins
The Most Important Action
Shutting off the water supply is the single most important action. Every minute of continued flow adds gallons of water and thousands of dollars of damage.
After the Water Is Off
- Open cabinet doors to let air reach wet walls.
- Drain remaining water from the system by opening the lowest faucet.
- Do not turn heat off in winter. Keep the house warm to help prevent further freezing.
- Lift furniture legs off wet carpet and place foil or plastic under them.
- Call a plumber to repair the pipe. We handle the water damage; a plumber repairs the plumbing.
Why Burst Pipe Water Spreads Fast
Pipes inside walls and ceilings release water into cavities that drain slowly. Water follows framing, wicks into drywall and insulation and travels under flooring. A pipe that bursts in an upstairs wall can saturate ceilings and walls below within minutes.
Common Causes in Delaware
- Frozen pipes in exterior walls, attics, crawl spaces and garages
- Aging galvanized and copper lines, especially in 1960s and 1970s housing
- Worn washing machine, ice maker and toilet supply lines
- High water pressure stressing fittings
- Corrosion at joints and fittings
Related Pages
FAQ
Burst Pipe FAQs
How much water can a burst pipe release?
A broken supply line can release hundreds of gallons per hour. That volume is why immediate shutoff matters.
Is burst pipe water safe?
Usually it starts as Category 1 clean water, but it can degrade to Category 2 within 24 to 48 hours as it contacts building materials.
Will insurance cover a burst pipe?
Commonly yes when sudden and accidental, though policy terms vary. Report the loss within 24 hours.
Can I fix the pipe myself?
Temporary clamps may help, but a licensed plumber should handle permanent repairs.
How long until mold starts?
Mold can begin within 24 to 48 hours on damp organic materials such as drywall and wood.
24/7 Emergency Line
Get Emergency Water Damage Restoration in New Castle County Call Now
Water damage does not wait, and every hour of delay increases the cost and complexity of restoration. Whether you are standing in a flooded basement right now, watching water spread from a burst pipe, or you have discovered signs of hidden water damage, the next step is the same: call Delaware Water Damage Pros for immediate emergency response.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. No answering services. No appointment scheduling. Direct dispatch to your property.
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Or fill out our emergency contact form and a team member will call you back within minutes.