Homeowner guide
What to Do When a Pipe Bursts or a Drain Backs Up
The first priorities are personal safety, stopping the water when possible, preventing contact with contaminated water, and documenting damage for professional follow-up.
Control Immediate Risk
For a supply-pipe break, shut off the nearest fixture valve or the home's main water valve if you can do so safely. If water is near outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel, avoid the area and seek qualified help rather than entering standing water. For a sewer or drain backup, keep people and pets away because the water may be contaminated. Stop using fixtures connected to the affected drain. Do not mix drain chemicals, and tell the plumber about any product already used.
Limit Damage and Document Conditions
Move valuables only when it is safe, place containers under active drips, and use towels or wet extraction equipment for clean water if appropriate. Contaminated water requires different handling and protective measures. Take photos of the source, affected rooms, damaged materials, and visible water lines before cleanup changes the scene. Note when the problem began and which fixtures were in use. Contact your insurer promptly if damage may be covered, and ask what documentation or mitigation steps they require.
Prepare for Diagnosis and Prevention
A plumber may ask about pipe material, freezing conditions, recent clogs, sewer history, water pressure, tree roots, or recurring slow drains. The immediate repair may not address the underlying cause. Ask whether camera inspection, pressure testing, drying, or replacement of damaged sections is appropriate. Request a written explanation of what failed and what can reduce recurrence. For older homes, know where the main shutoff is and keep access clear; a labeled shutoff can save valuable time during the next emergency.