Burst pipe? What to do right now
Step-by-step emergency advice for a burst or leaking pipe: turning off the water, staying safe around electrics, and getting an emergency plumber.
1. Turn off the water at the stopcock
Your internal stopcock is usually under the kitchen sink, but can be in a downstairs toilet, airing cupboard or where the pipe enters the house. Turn it clockwise to close it. It's worth finding it before you ever need it.
2. Be careful with electrics
If water is near sockets, light fittings or the consumer unit, switch off the electricity at the consumer unit if it's safe and dry to reach. Never touch electrics with wet hands or while standing in water.
3. Drain the system
Turn on the cold taps to drain remaining water from the pipes, and flush toilets. Switch off your boiler or water heater.
4. Contain the damage
Put buckets under leaks, move valuables, and take photos of the damage for your insurer. Contact your home insurance — many policies include emergency cover.
5. Call an emergency plumber
Use our emergency page to find Oxfordshire plumbers who offer emergency call-outs. Ask for the call-out charge and hourly rate before they set off.
Sources
General guidance only — check official sources for your situation.