Step 1: Turn off the water
Find your main stopcock and turn it clockwise to close. Most stopcocks are under the kitchen sink, in a cupboard near where the mains enters your house, or by the front door. If you can't find it or it's seized, the water company can shut off at the street — phone Southern Water on 0330 303 0277 (24/7).
Step 2: Switch off the boiler
If the burst is on a hot-water pipe or your boiler's pressure has dropped, turn the boiler off at the wall. This protects the boiler from damage and stops it pumping more hot water through the leak.
Step 3: Open all cold taps
Run the taps on the lowest level until water stops. This drains the pipework above and reduces pressure on the burst section, slowing the leak dramatically.
Step 4: Move valuables & absorb water
Move furniture, electronics, and rugs out of the affected area. Use towels, buckets, and a wet vac if you have one to absorb standing water — every minute of contact does more damage to floors and ceilings.
Step 5: Call us
On 07719 522450 (24/7) or WhatsApp us. We'll dispatch the nearest engineer and talk you through anything else while we're on the way. We carry the parts to fix most bursts on the first visit.
What NOT to do
Don't use electrical appliances near the leak. Don't turn the heating back on until the leak is repaired. Don't apply heat to a frozen pipe with a blowtorch — gentle warm air only. Don't try to repair the burst yourself with tape unless you have proper plumbing experience.
Insurance & documentation
Most home insurance covers burst pipe damage. Take photos before any cleanup. Keep all receipts for emergency repairs. We can provide a written report of the cause and repair work for your claim.