A pipe has burst. What now?

1. Put safety before belongings

Keep people away from water near electrical fittings or a sagging ceiling. Do not enter an unsafe area to retrieve possessions or reach a valve. If anyone is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services.

2. Close the internal stop tap if safe

If you know where it is and can safely reach and operate it, turn the internal stop tap clockwise to close the water supply. Do not force a seized valve. Tell the plumber if the water cannot be isolated or if water continues flowing. South East Water’s stop-tap guidance explains the difference between internal and external valves. Avoid operating a shared external supply without appropriate advice.

3. Stop using affected fittings

Do not keep testing the leak with a tap, shower or appliance. Keep clear of wet electrical controls. The exact source needs assessment; water can travel before becoming visible.

4. Call with the important information

Give your postcode, where water is appearing, whether the supply is off and what access is available. Mention any affected ceiling or electrical area without moving closer to inspect it.

5. Record damage only when safe

A simple record may be useful for your own household or insurer. Do not delay getting help or enter an unsafe space to take photographs. Insurance cover, drying and decoration are separate from the plumbing repair unless expressly agreed. For attendance, see burst pipe repair in Kent, Maidstone coverage or Sittingbourne coverage.

General first-step guidance checked against South East Water on 8 September 2026. It does not diagnose your plumbing system.