What to do when a pipe bursts — and how to get it fixed fast
Updated 3 July 2026
A burst pipe can flood a room in minutes, so the first job is to stop the water and limit the damage — then get a qualified plumber out fast. Here's exactly what to do, in order.
Stop the water immediately
Turn off your main stopcock. It's usually under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs cupboard, or where the mains pipe enters the house. Turn it clockwise until it stops. This cuts the water supply to the whole property.
If the leak is from a hot water or heating pipe, also turn off your boiler and, if you have one, the water supply to your hot water cylinder.
Drain the system and reduce damage
Open all your cold taps to drain the remaining water from the pipes quickly. Then flush the toilets to empty the cisterns.
Turn off the electricity at the consumer unit if water is anywhere near sockets, wiring, or light fittings. Move furniture and valuables away from the leak and put down towels or buckets.
Get an emergency plumber out
A burst pipe is a genuine emergency — you want a qualified plumber on site quickly. Rather than ringing round yourself, FixDelivered contacts nearby emergency plumbers for you, checks who's available and what they'll charge, and confirms one — usually within the hour.
You'll see the plumber's callout fee upfront before anything is booked, and the booking fee is fully refunded if we can't find someone.
Need a plumber right now?
We find and confirm a qualified local plumber, usually within the hour — or your booking fee back.
Get help now →Frequently asked questions
Is a burst pipe an emergency?
Yes. Burst pipes cause fast, expensive water damage and can create electrical hazards. Turn off the mains stopcock straight away and get an emergency plumber out.
How much does it cost to fix a burst pipe?
An emergency callout typically runs £80–£180 depending on the time and access, plus parts. The plumber's fee is agreed with you upfront and paid on arrival.
Will my insurance cover a burst pipe?
Most home insurance covers the water damage from a burst pipe (and often the repair). Take photos before you clean up, and keep any receipts.