Burst Pipe? Here’s What You Should Do Before the Plumber Arrives

A burst pipe is one of the most common and urgent plumbing issues homeowners face, and it can cause serious damage to your property if not dealt with promptly. Whether it’s caused by freezing temperatures, ageing infrastructure, or the heavy rainfall common in Townsville, burst pipes require immediate attention. Knowing how to respond in the event of a burst pipe can help you minimise damage and ensure that your plumber in Townsville can address the issue efficiently when they arrive.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what happens when a pipe bursts, why it’s such a serious issue, and the quick steps you can take to minimise damage before calling a professional plumber.

A burst pipe is simply when a pipe ruptures or bursts open, typically due to high water pressure, freezing conditions, or the deterioration of old piping. When a pipe bursts, water begins to leak out rapidly, and if not stopped, it can flood the surrounding area. The pressure of the water can cause extensive damage to walls, flooring, furniture, and electrical systems, making it a serious issue that requires immediate action.

Burst pipes can be especially common due to the tropical climate and occasional heavy rainfall, which can place additional strain on your plumbing system. Ageing infrastructure in older homes may also contribute to the risk of pipe bursts, as older pipes are more likely to deteriorate and crack over time.

A burst pipe can cause a variety of problems, including:

• Water Damage: Water can quickly soak through walls, floors, and ceilings, damaging your property and belongings.
• Mould & Mildew: Left unchecked, moisture from a burst pipe can promote the growth of mould and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and the structural integrity of your home.
• Costly Repairs: The longer a burst pipe goes unaddressed, the more extensive the damage will be, leading to higher repair costs.
• Increased Water Bills: A burst pipe can result in significant water loss, which will be reflected in your water bill.



The good news is that taking the right steps immediately can help reduce the severity of the damage. Here are some quick actions you can take while waiting for a plumber near you to arrive.

The very first thing you should do when you notice a burst pipe is turn off your water supply. This will stop the flow of water and prevent further flooding. In most homes, the main water shut-off valve is located near the water meter, typically found outside or in a utility area. Turning this valve off will stop the water from flowing through your pipes, halting the leak and limiting further damage.

If you’re unsure where the main shut-off valve is located, it's a good idea to find it in advance, so you know exactly where it is in case of an emergency.

If the burst pipe is near any electrical outlets, switches, or appliances, turn off the electricity to the affected area. Water and electricity do not mix, and there's a significant risk of electrical hazards if water comes into contact with electrical systems. Be sure to cut the power at the circuit breaker to prevent any accidents or electrical fires.

Once the water supply is turned off, drain your pipes by opening the taps in your home. Let the water run out to relieve any remaining pressure in the pipes. This can help reduce the amount of water that will continue to flow from the burst pipe, minimising the risk of water damage.

If possible, try to contain the water by using towels, buckets, or even a mop to soak up any standing water. If the burst pipe is causing water to pool in one area, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the excess water, being careful around electrical appliances and outlets.



If the water is pooling near valuable items, move them to a safer location if possible. The quicker you act to contain the water, the less chance it will have to cause significant damage to your flooring, walls, or belongings.

If it is safe to do so, inspect the area of the burst pipe. Look for obvious signs of where the leak is coming from, but do not attempt to repair the pipe yourself. If you can identify the location of the burst pipe, it can help your plumber in Townsville determine the extent of the damage and make repairs more efficiently when they arrive.

Key things to look for:

• Water pooling: This will help you identify the general location of the leak.
• Cracks or bulges in the walls or floors: Indicating that water pressure has been building up.
• Wet insulation or damp ceilings.

Remember, only perform these actions if it's safe to do so. Never attempt to fix the pipe yourself, as this can cause further damage or injury.

Once you've taken steps to limit the damage, it’s time to call a plumber near you for help. A qualified plumber can respond quickly to burst pipe situations by assessing the issue, locating the source of the leak, and carrying out necessary repairs to help restore your plumbing system safely.

A burst pipe can be a stressful and damaging issue, but by taking immediate action, you can minimise the damage while waiting for a professional plumber. Remember to turn off the water supply, contain the water, and contact a professional plumber like 1touch Plumbing for expert assistance. 

1touch Plumbing has been serving Tweed Heads and the surrounding areas, including Townsville, with professional plumbing services for years. We offer expert advice, fast response times, and high-quality repairs to ensure your plumbing system is in safe hands.

With our team of skilled plumbers in Townsville, we are here to provide reliable and timely solutions to any plumbing issue, including burst pipes. Don’t wait until the damage becomes more extensive – contact us today to schedule an inspection or emergency repair.