Burst water pipes are more common than you might think. Almost half of all plumbing callouts are for this very issue (believe us, we know!). And it’s easy to see why they cause such panic: not only are they distressing, but if they’re not contained quickly, they can lead to serious damage to your home.
So, what do you do when a pipe bursts? Do you just call a plumber and wait it out, hoping the water doesn’t wreak havoc in the meantime?
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do when a pipe bursts. From immediate steps to minimise damage to temporary fixes and long-term repairs, our goal is simple: help you act fast, protect your home, and get your plumbing system back to normal as quickly as possible.
What Causes Water Pipes to Burst?
Burst pipes don’t just happen out of the blue. There are several common factors that put your plumbing at risk and understanding these causes can help you prevent damage and act quickly if a burst does occur.
1. Corrosion and Aging Pipes
Pipes naturally wear down over time, and corrosion can weaken their walls, creating spots that are prone to leaks or bursts. Rust, pitting, and corrosion, especially in older pipes, are all common culprits.
Water quality plays a big role, too. Hard water that is high in calcium can accelerate pipe deterioration, too. In fact, even homes just 10–11 years old can experience multiple bursts if corrosion has been accelerated by environmental factors.
2. Excessive Water Pressure
While strong water flow might seem like a good thing, too much pressure puts constant stress on your plumbing system. Ideally, your home’s water pressure should stay between 40–80 psi (as outlined by Australian Standard AS/NZS 3500.1).
Anything higher can weaken pipes, fittings, and joints. Signs of dangerously high pressure include banging pipes (“water hammer”), dripping taps, or unusually strong water flow. Over time, this ongoing strain can cause pipes to fail, often at the weakest points in the system.
3. Physical Damage or Construction Accidents
Not all burst pipes are due to natural wear or weather. Outside forces can cause sudden failures. Pipes can break during construction, landscaping, or even routine home maintenance if they’re accidentally struck or not properly supported/ installed.
Natural events such as earthquakes or floods can also shift soil around buried pipes, creating stress points that lead to cracks or even full collapse. Even heavy traffic or construction above ground can disturb soil and damage underground pipes.
Signs That a Pipe May Be About to Burst
Burst pipes often give warning signs before disaster strikes. Recognising these early can save you a lot of damage and a headache. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Strange Noises (Creaking, Banging, Hissing)
Your plumbing system sometimes speaks before it breaks. Loud banging noises, known as “water hammer,” happen when valves close quickly and indicate dangerous water pressure that could stress your pipes.
Hissing or whistling sounds, even when no taps are running, usually mean water is escaping through tiny cracks. Pipes that creak or rattle as they sway under pressure can hit walls and weaken over time as well. Even gurgling or bubbling sounds often point to trapped air in your pipes…another potential burst warning.
2. Visible Leaks or Water Stains
Discolouration on walls or ceilings is a clear signal of a leak or burst. These stains often start yellow or brown and grow larger if ignored. Keep an eye out for peeling wallpaper, bubbling paint, or loose tiles, as these all indicate moisture building up behind surfaces. Even small damp patches should be addressed ASAP, as they often point to larger hidden problems lurking beneath the surface.
Additionally, black or green mould along skirting boards, walls, or ceilings usually signals trapped moisture from a leaking pipe. Musty odours often appear before visible mould, and persistent mould after cleaning typically points to an ongoing leak that needs urgent attention.
3. Reduced Water Pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure can be a major red flag. Leaks or cracks may be siphoning water before it reaches your taps, resulting in weak or uneven flow. If water takes longer than usual to reach your fixtures, it’s a sign your pipes could be compromised.
Step 1: Immediate Actions When a Pipe Bursts
When it comes to burst pipes, you’ve got to act quick. The first few minutes after discovering a burst can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and major damage. Here’s what to do right away:
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Your first priority is stopping the flow of water. In most Australian homes, the main water valve is located near the front of the property by the water meter, often inside your fence or in a covered underground box. If you live in an apartment, check under the kitchen or laundry sink.
To turn off your water safely:
- Remove the lid of the water mains box.
- Locate the valve; it typically points in the direction water flows when it’s on.
- Turn the valve clockwise 90 degrees to shut it off.
- If the valve is stuck, try turning it counterclockwise first to break the seal, then clockwise to close it. Use gloves or pliers if needed, but avoid forcing it.
2. Cut Off Electricity in the Affected Area (If Needed)
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If the burst pipe could reach electrical wiring, switches, or outlets, turn off power at your main switchboard.
- Look for the main switch labelled “isolator” or “circuit breaker” and switch it off – Only if it’s safe to do so.
- Never step into water to reach electrical components; if it’s unsafe, wait for professional help.
3. Contain the Water
Once the water and electricity are off, start containing the damage:
- Place buckets under the leak to catch running water.
- Use towels or cloths to soak up water and create temporary barriers.
- Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from wet areas.
- Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate and help prevent mould.
Even a small amount of standing water can damage your floors, walls, and furniture if not dealt with quickly. Acting fast at this stage helps minimise repairs.
Step 2: Assessing the Damage
Once you’ve stopped the water flow, it’s time to get a clear picture of the problem. Assessing the damage early helps you determine what repairs are needed and whether you need professional help.
1. Identifying the Source of the Leak
Beyond obvious leaks and bursts, finding the exact pipe and type of burst is crucial. Start by inspecting your property for obvious signs: damp patches, warped surfaces, or discolouration on walls and ceilings. Listen carefully for hissing or running water, which often points to the leak’s location.
Hidden leaks may require advanced detection tools that professional plumbers use, such as:
- Infrared cameras: Reveal temperature changes caused by water behind walls.
- Moisture meters: Measure how damp surfaces are to pinpoint problem areas.
- Acoustic leak detectors: Amplify the sounds of escaping water to locate hard-to-see leaks.
2. Inspecting Property Damage
After locating the leak, thoroughly inspect all affected areas such as walls, floors, ceilings, and structural components like beams and columns. Water damage often extends beyond what you can see and may affect insulation, electrical wiring, and even the foundation. Document everything with photos or videos for insurance purposes.
Step 3: Temporary Repairs & Fixes
When a water pipe bursts, temporary repairs are a crucial stopgap measure. They help contain the leak and minimise damage until a professional plumber can carry out permanent repairs. While these solutions can be very effective in the short term, it’s important to understand both their capabilities and limitations.
Temporary repairs are exactly that – temporary. They are not supposed to be permanent solutions and should only be relied upon for a short period, usually until a plumber arrives. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Pressure Sensitivity: Temporary fixes can fail under ongoing water pressure changes or high-pressure conditions in your plumbing system.
- Moisture Seepage: Even well-applied temporary solutions may allow some water to seep through over time.
- Underlying Issues Remain: They do not address the root cause of the damage, such as corrosion, freezing, or poor installation.
- Complications During Permanent Repairs: Some temporary solutions, if left in place too long, can make permanent repairs more difficult.
Using Pipe Clamps for Medium to Large Leaks
Pipe clamps are one of the most reliable temporary solutions for medium to large leaks. They create a physical barrier around the damaged area, stopping water flow while you wait for professional help. Here’s how to use them correctly:
- Clean and Dry the Pipe: Remove all water, dirt, and debris from the affected area. Wipe the pipe thoroughly and allow it to dry as much as possible. Drying the surface ensures the clamp and gasket sit securely and form a tight seal.
- Apply a Rubber Gasket or Patch: Place a rubber gasket, patch, or a piece of flexible rubber over the hole or crack. The rubber acts as both a cushion and a barrier, protecting the pipe from further damage and helping the clamp create a tight seal.
- Secure the Clamp: Position the clamp over the rubber patch and wrap it around the pipe. Tighten the clamp evenly with a screwdriver or wrench until the water flow stops. Make sure the clamp sits flush against the pipe without twisting, as uneven pressure can reduce its effectiveness.
Using Epoxy Putty for Small Cracks or Pinhole Leaks
Epoxy putty is ideal for repairing minor cracks or pinhole leaks, providing a strong temporary seal that can hold until a professional repair is completed.
- Mix the Putty: Combine equal parts of the two-part epoxy putty until the colour is uniform. Knead thoroughly to activate the bonding agents in the putty.
- Apply Over the Leak: Press the putty firmly over the leak, extending it at least an inch beyond the damaged area. Shape the putty around the pipe to ensure full coverage.
- Set and Harden: Allow the putty to begin setting for 5–10 minutes. Full curing may take up to 24 hours, depending on the product instructions, before the repair can handle full water pressure.
Using Rubber and Tape Patches for Minor Leaks
For pinhole leaks or very small cracks, waterproof tape or self-fusing silicone wraps can be applied quickly and effectively:
- Prepare the Pipe: Clean and dry the leak area thoroughly. Any dirt or moisture can prevent the tape from adhering properly.
- Wrap Tightly: Stretch and wrap the tape or silicone around the pipe, overlapping each layer by about half its width. Ensure the wrap is tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it damages the pipe further.
- Extend Beyond the Leak: The wrap should extend at least an inch or more past the damaged section to create a secure seal and prevent water from escaping.
- Enhance the Seal: Some wraps harden after application, creating extra strength compared to tape alone. Using a hardening wrap or adding multiple layers can make the temporary repair more reliable.
Additional Tips for Temporary Repairs
- Monitor the Leak: Check the repaired area regularly for any signs of water seeping out. Even small drips can indicate the temporary fix is failing.
- Reduce Water Pressure: If possible, lower the water pressure in your system to reduce strain on the temporary repair.
- Contain Water: Use buckets, towels, or trays under the leak to catch water and protect flooring, furniture, and other valuables.
- Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the pipe and surrounding damage before and after the temporary repair. This helps with insurance claims and provides a reference for the plumber.
Step 4: Document Damage and Contact Insurance
Once you’ve contained the burst pipe and limited immediate damage, the next step is documenting everything for your insurance claim. Proper documentation can make the difference between a smooth claim process and delays or disputes.
1. Take Photos and Videos of Affected Areas
Visual evidence is key. Take detailed photos of the burst pipe, water-damaged areas, and any affected belongings. For added clarity:
- Capture close-up shots of damaged items and the leak itself.
- Include a measuring tape or other reference to show water levels or the size of the damage.
- Take wide-angle photos from multiple viewpoints to show the full context of the affected space.
- Record short videos if possible, including a brief shot of the active leak by turning the water on carefully (if safe).
2. List Damaged Items with Estimated Value
Create a comprehensive list of all water-damaged items. Include as much detail as possible:
- Item descriptions, brands, models, and serial numbers.
- Receipts, warranties, or purchase records to verify ownership and value.
3. Understand What Your Policy Covers
Most home insurance policies cover sudden or accidental water damage but may exclude slow leaks or maintenance-related issues:
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible.
- Avoid starting repairs without written approval from your insurer, as unauthorised work may not be covered.
- Consider asking a public adjuster to review your policy for free to ensure you understand your coverage and limits before filing a claim.
4. Keep Digital Copies of Everything
Store all photos, videos, lists, receipts, and correspondence digitally in a safe location. This ensures you have secure backups in case physical copies are lost or damaged.
Step 5: When to Call a Professional Plumber
Temporary fixes can help limit damage, but some burst pipe situations require the immediate attention of a professional burst pipe plumber. Knowing exactly when to call in the experts can save you from major water damage, costly repairs, and unnecessary stress.
- Hidden Water Leaks: If water continues to seep from walls, ceilings, or floors despite temporary fixes, there may be hidden leaks that require specialist tools to locate.
- Unexplained High Water Bills: Sudden spikes in water usage often signal ongoing leaks that you can’t see or fix yourself.
- Hard-to-Reach Pipes: Leaks in concealed areas like behind walls, under floors, or in crawl spaces usually need professional detection and repair.
- Flooding Despite Temporary Fixes: If buckets, clamps, or tape cannot contain water, calling an emergency plumber immediately is crucial.
- Damage to Critical Systems: Burst pipes affecting gas lines, hot water systems, or main water mains require expert intervention to prevent further risk or damage.
Choosing the Right Plumber for Emergency Repairs
Selecting the right professional is just as important as calling quickly. When looking for an emergency plumber, consider these key factors:
- Licensing and Insurance: Always hire licensed and insured plumbers. Unlicensed work may be illegal and could leave you responsible for damages if something goes wrong.
- 24/7 Availability: Emergencies don’t follow a schedule, so choose a service that operates round-the-clock to respond anytime a burst pipe occurs.
- Fast Response Time: Water damage spreads quickly. Look for plumbers who guarantee a rapid response, ideally arriving within an hour or less.
- Clear Pricing: Even in emergencies, a trustworthy plumber provides transparent pricing information, explaining potential costs and any variables upfront.
- Specialised Equipment: Hidden leaks, especially in water mains or underground pipes, require plumbers with advanced detection tools such as acoustic leak detectors, infrared cameras, and moisture meters to locate and fix the problem accurately.
A burst pipe can turn your home upside down, and waiting too long to get professional help can make matters worse. Hardie & Co Plumbing provides fast, 24/7 emergency services to assess damage, stop leaks, and restore your plumbing system. We serve homes and businesses across Sydney, no matter the size of the job. Our team ensures your plumbing works perfectly again while protecting your property from further water damage.
Preventing Further Damage After a Burst Pipe
Once you’ve stopped the leak and applied temporary repairs, the next priority is preventing additional damage and setting the stage for permanent fixes. Acting quickly now can reduce structural damage, avoid mould growth, and protect your home.
Draining Remaining Water from the System
After a burst pipe, it’s important to remove any remaining water from your plumbing system. This helps prevent further leaks and prepares your pipes for inspection or repair.
- Start by turning on cold water taps throughout your home and flushing all toilets.
- Important: Turn off your hot water service before opening hot water taps to avoid damage to your water heater.
- Draining the system ensures minimal water remains in pipes, reducing the risk of additional leaks or pressure-related issues.
Drying and Ventilating the Area
Mould and mildew can begin growing within 24 hours of water exposure, so immediate drying is essential.
- Open windows and doors to increase airflow throughout the affected areas.
- Use fans to direct airflow toward walls, ceilings, and floors, speeding up evaporation.
- For serious water damage, dehumidifiers help pull moisture out of the air and materials more efficiently.
- Warm surfaces dry faster than cold ones, so gently warming affected areas can help.
- Focus first on structural materials like walls and ceilings, then move to flooring and furniture.
Long-Term Repairs and Pipe Replacement
Temporary fixes only buy time. Permanent repairs or pipe replacement are necessary to prevent future bursts. A licensed plumber can assess whether partial repairs or full replacement is needed or even pipe relining is needed.
Upgrading to Prevent Future Bursts
Preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of future pipe bursts:
- Install Pressure Regulators: Keep water pressure safe between 50–60 PSI, reducing stress on pipes.
- Insulate Pipes in Cold Climates: Prevents freezing and raises pipe temperature to protect against winter bursts.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual plumbing inspections to identify weak points early. Check water pressure periodically and fix small leaks promptly.
Combining proper drainage, drying, material upgrades, and preventative maintenance ensures your home stays protected and reduces the likelihood of another plumbing emergency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
During a burst water pipe emergency, homeowners can unintentionally turn a manageable situation into a major disaster. Being aware of common mistakes can help you act safely, protect your home, and reduce repair costs.
- Ignoring Early Warning Signs: Strange dripping sounds, unexpected spikes in water bills, damp patches, or sudden mould growth often signal underlying issues. Acting early can prevent severe flooding.
- Relying on Temporary Fixes as Permanent Solutions: Epoxy, tape, or clamps are short-term solutions. Leaving them in place too long can worsen leaks and damage.
- Delaying Shutting Off Water: Every minute counts. Failing to turn off the main water supply increases structural damage and repair costs.
- Attempting Risky DIY Repairs: Without proper tools or knowledge, DIY fixes can cause injury, worsen leaks, or damage your plumbing further.
Take Control and Protect Your Home
Burst water pipes are stressful, but quick thinking and decisive action can save your home from serious damage. While temporary fixes can hold things together for a short time, they are not a substitute for professional repairs.
Once the immediate crisis is under control, draining pipes and thoroughly drying affected areas is critical to prevent mould growth and moisture damage. Professionals can advise whether repairs or pipe replacement is the best long-term solution.
At Hardie & Co Plumbing, we understand the urgency of burst pipe emergencies. Our 24/7 emergency plumbing team responds quickly, assesses damage, and implements effective solutions to restore your plumbing and protect your home. Serving clients across Sydney, no job is too big or too small.Let us help you regain peace of mind and get your plumbing system back on track