Water leak at home: what to do in the first ten minutes

A burst pipe or leak can cause serious damage in minutes. Knowing what to do straight away makes a big difference.

1. Turn off the water

Find your internal stopcock and turn it clockwise to close it. It is usually under the kitchen sink, but in older London houses it can be under the stairs, in a cellar or near the front door. If you live in a flat, it may be in a cupboard or riser. Find yours now, before you need it.

2. Make electrics safe

If water is near light fittings, sockets or the consumer unit, switch off the electricity at the main switch, as long as you can reach it without touching water.

3. Drain the system

Turn on cold taps to drain the remaining water from the pipes. If the leak is on the heating system, turn off the boiler.

4. Limit the damage

• Move furniture, rugs and valuables away from the water.

• Put buckets and towels under drips.

• If water is coming through a ceiling that is bulging, keep clear of the area beneath it.

5. Record and report

Take photos for your insurer and let your landlord or managing agent know if you rent. If the leak affects a neighbour, tell them as soon as possible.

Preventing leaks

• Insulate pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls.

• Check under sinks and around the boiler regularly for drips.

• Make sure your stopcock turns freely.

Need a plumber?

The Essential Connection carries out plumbing repairs across Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Cobham, Esher, Kingston and South West London. Get in touch or call 07719 664615.