A burst pipe or overflowing toilet can do a lot of damage in a few minutes. The steps below help you stop the water and protect your home while help is on the way.
1. Stop the water
- For a single fixture, close the shut-off valve under the sink or behind the toilet. Turn it clockwise.
- For a burst pipe or a leak you can't isolate, shut off the main water valve. It's usually where the water line enters the house, often in the basement, crawl space or utility room.
- For a leaking water heater, close the cold water valve on the pipe at the top of the heater.
2. Stay safe
- If water is near outlets, appliances or your electrical panel, stay out of it and shut off power to that area if you can do so safely.
- If you smell gas, leave the house right away and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don't use light switches or anything that could make a spark.
3. Limit the damage
- Open a faucet at the lowest point in the house to drain water from the pipes.
- Move furniture, rugs and valuables out of the way.
- Mop up standing water and take photos for your insurance company.
4. Call a plumber
Once the water is off, call us. Tell us what happened and where, and we'll get someone out to fix it.
Find your main shut-off valve today, before you need it. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.
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Montani Mechanical Group's licensed plumbers serve homes and businesses across Charleston, WV. Related services: