Burst Pipe? What to Do in the First 10 Minutes

Step 1: Shut Off the Main Water Valve

Every second the water runs adds to the damage, so this comes first. Turn the main shutoff clockwise until it stops if it is a round wheel handle. If it is a lever handle, turn it a quarter turn so the lever sits across the pipe. If the valve is stuck, do not force it hard enough to break it. Call us and tell us, and we will talk you through options while a technician is dispatched.

How to Find the Main Shutoff in a Typical New York Basement

In most homes on municipal water, the water service enters through the basement wall or floor on the side facing the street. Look for a pipe coming through the foundation, usually near the front of the house, with the water meter close by. The main shutoff is normally right before or right after the meter. Older Capital Region homes may have a round gate valve, while newer or updated homes often have a lever ball valve.

Homes on a private well usually have the shutoff near the pressure tank. Find your valve now, before an emergency, and make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.

• Check the basement wall facing the street
• Follow the pipe from the water meter
• On a well, look near the pressure tank
• Tag the valve so anyone can find it fast

Step 2: Stay Safe Around Electricity

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Do not walk into standing water if it may be in contact with outlets, extension cords, appliances or the electrical panel. If you can reach the panel from a dry spot, switch off the breakers for the wet areas. If the panel itself is wet or you would have to stand in water to reach it, stay out and call your utility for help.

Step 3: Drain the Lines and Protect Your Things

With the main off, open the lowest faucet in the house, such as a basement laundry sink, and a faucet on an upper floor. This drains the water still in the pipes so less of it pours out of the break. Flush toilets once to empty the tanks. Then move furniture, electronics, rugs, documents and boxes away from the water. Put towels down and start removing standing water if it is safe.

Step 4: Photograph Everything, Then Call a 24/7 Plumber

Before you clean up, take photos and video of the burst pipe, the water, ceilings, walls, floors and damaged belongings. Insurance companies often ask for this record. Then call a 24/7 plumber. Fullerton answers any hour at (518) 776-7838 and dispatches the nearest available technician. Customers in Albany have seen us arrive within 30 minutes. We find the break, repair it, check nearby pipes for more freeze damage and clean up our work area.