Burst Pipe: What to Do

A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons per hour. Here's how to minimize damage and what to expect from repairs.

Do This First

Shut off your main water valve immediately. Every minute of delay means more water damage. Find your shut-off valve →

Step-by-Step Response

Shut Off the Water

Find your main shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. In Vancouver homes, it's usually in the basement near the front foundation wall, or in a utility closet for condos.

Turn Off Your Water Heater

With the main water off, turn off your water heater to prevent tank damage. Gas: turn to pilot. Electric: flip the breaker.

Drain the System

Open faucets throughout the house to drain remaining water from the pipes. This reduces pressure and gets more water out of your walls.

Contain and Protect

Place buckets under drips, move furniture and valuables away from wet areas, and mop up standing water if safe to do so.

Document Everything

Take photos and video of the damage before cleanup. Your insurance company will need this documentation.

Call a Licensed Plumber

Once the immediate crisis is contained, call a plumber. Be ready to describe where the leak is, what type of pipe, and how long water was flowing.

What Causes Pipes to Burst?

Freezing

Most common in Vancouver winters. Water expands when it freezes, cracking pipes in crawl spaces, exterior walls, or garages.

Corrosion

Older galvanized steel pipes corrode from inside. You can't see it until they fail.

High Pressure

Water pressure over 80 PSI stresses pipes and fittings. Consider a pressure regulator.

Age

Pipes don't last forever. Galvanized: 20-50 years. Copper: 50-70 years. PEX: 40-50 years.

What to Expect from Repairs

Assessment: A plumber will locate the burst section, assess damage, and check for any secondary issues.

Repair vs. replacement: Small sections can often be cut out and replaced. Older pipes with corrosion may need more extensive replacement.

Wall access: If the pipe is inside a wall, drywall will need to be opened. The plumber fixes the pipe; you'll likely need a separate contractor for drywall repair.

Timeline: Emergency pipe repair itself is usually done same-day. Water damage restoration can take much longer.

Cost Ranges (Vancouver)

• Emergency service call: $100-$200+
• Simple pipe repair: $150-$500
• Wall access + repair: $500-$1,500+
• After-hours premium: 1.5x to 2x

These are rough estimates. Actual costs vary by severity, location, and plumber.