Emergency Pipe Repair: What to Do Before the Professionals Arrive

A burst pipe. A leaking faucet. A sudden, unexpected water disaster in your home. It’s one of those moments that can send your heart racing and leave you wondering, What do I do now?

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. We know that plumbing emergencies can be stressful, but SeweREPIPE is here to help. While you're waiting for the professionals to arrive, there are a few simple steps you can take to minimize damage and restore some peace of mind.

SeweREPIPE is here to help walk you through exactly what to do if you experience a plumbing emergency—so you can stay calm, stay safe, and know you’re in good hands.

1. Turn Off Your Water Supply

The very first thing you should do when you spot a leak or burst pipe is to shut off the water supply to your home. This prevents further water from flooding your house, which could cause even more damage to walls, floors, and belongings.

• Locate your main water shut-off valve. This is typically found near your water meter, often in a basement, crawl space, or outside near the street.

• Turn the valve clockwise to cut off the water flow to the entire house.
  

If you’re unsure where your main shut-off valve is located, it’s worth taking a few minutes to find it before an emergency occurs. When you need it, you’ll be able to act quickly to minimize damage.

2. Relieve Water Pressure (If Safe to Do So)

Once you’ve turned off the water supply, drain the system to relieve pressure and help reduce any further leaking. Opening the faucets in the highest and lowest points of your home—like in the bathroom or kitchen—will allow the water to drain from the pipes. This helps reduce pressure within the system and minimizes the amount of water that can escape from any leaks or cracks.

Pro tip: Doing this step is especially helpful if you can't get to the shut-off valve right away—by draining some of the excess water, you’ll help prevent even more water from leaking.

3. Assess the Damage and Contain the Water (If Possible)

While waiting for the professionals, try to contain the water as best as you can. This will limit further damage to your home’s structure and belongings.

• Place towels, rags, or a bucket under leaks to catch any dripping or spraying water.

• Use plastic sheets or tarps to shield important furniture or electronics from any standing water.
  

If the burst pipe is located in a more accessible area, such as under the sink or near a water heater, try to contain the leak until help arrives. It’s tempting to start patching things up yourself, but it’s best to leave the repairs to the professionals to avoid causing more damage.

4. Shut Off the Power (If Necessary)

If the water has reached near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off the power immediately. Water can conduct electricity, creating a serious risk of electrocution.

• Turn off the main circuit breaker to cut power to the home if you suspect water has come into contact with electrical systems.
  

While this step may not always be necessary, it’s better to be cautious, especially if the leak is near any electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring. Safety first!

5. Take Photos for Insurance and Documentation

Once the water has been contained and the immediate dangers are addressed, take clear photos of the affected areas. These images will be helpful for your insurance claim, as well as for the repair team when they arrive.

• Take photos of the damaged pipes, water buildup, and any affected furniture or flooring.

• Document the time and any steps you’ve already taken to mitigate the damage, like shutting off the water.
  

Pro Tip: The more detailed your documentation, the smoother your insurance claim will go. It also helps the professionals know exactly what they’re dealing with when they arrive.

6. Call SeweRepipe!

At this point, it’s time to call in the experts. The good news? SeweREPIPE is ready to take action. We specialize in emergency pipe repair, and we have the right tools, skills, and experience to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

When you call us, our team will:

• Arrive promptly to assess the situation.

• Provide a clear, honest estimate on repairs and offer transparent pricing.

• Take care of everything from pipe inspections to full repairs, getting your plumbing system back to normal.
  

7. Relax, We’ve Got This

We understand how overwhelming plumbing emergencies can be, but there’s no need to stress. With SeweREPIPE on your side, you can rest assured knowing we’ll handle everything professionally and efficiently.

When our team arrives, we’ll take care of the mess, fix the leaks, and make sure your pipes are working properly. From burst pipes to clogged drains, we’re here to make the entire repair process as stress-free as possible.

Pro Tip: Keep our number saved on your phone or in your emergency contacts. That way, when the unexpected happens, you’ll know exactly who to call.

Be Prepared, and Call SeweREPIPE!

Plumbing emergencies don’t always come with a warning, but knowing what to do in the moment can save you from major headaches and damage. By following these steps, you’ll minimize the impact of a plumbing disaster and help our professionals get the job done faster and more effectively.

Remember, SeweREPIPE is here for you. From emergency pipe repairs to regular maintenance, we’re just a phone call away. If you’re facing a plumbing emergency, give us a call, and we’ll take it from there.