EMERGENCY PLUMBING: WHAT TO DO BEFORE THE PLUMBER ARRIVES

A burst pipe or major leak can cause thousands in water damage within minutes. Knowing what to do in the first 10 minutes can save your home. Here's your step-by-step guide.

STEP 1: SHUT OFF THE WATER

Find your main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. In most DMV homes, it's in the basement near the front foundation wall, or near the water meter. Every household member should know where this valve is before an emergency happens.

STEP 2: TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER

With the main water off, turn off your water heater to prevent damage. For gas heaters, turn the gas valve to the off position. For electric, flip the breaker. Running a water heater without water supply can cause overheating.

STEP 3: OPEN FAUCETS TO DRAIN

Open cold water faucets throughout the house to drain remaining water from the pipes. This reduces pressure and minimizes additional leaking. Flush toilets once to empty the tanks.

STEP 4: CONTAIN THE WATER

Use towels, buckets, and mops to contain standing water. If water is near electrical outlets or your breaker panel, turn off electricity to those areas first. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected area.

STEP 5: DOCUMENT EVERYTHING

Take photos and videos of the damage before cleanup. Your insurance company will need this documentation. Note the time the leak started and what you did to mitigate it.

STEP 6: CALL A LICENSED PLUMBER

Call a licensed emergency plumber immediately. At All Purpose Anytime Services, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service across Maryland, DC, and Virginia. We also handle the drywall repair and repainting after the plumbing is fixed.