Burst Pipe at Home? What to Do in the First 10 Minutes
A burst pipe can dump hundreds of litres of water into your home in minutes. What you do in the first 10 minutes decides whether you're looking at a minor mop-up or a five-figure insurance claim. Here's the exact order Brisbane homeowners should follow.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Mains
Your main shut-off valve is almost always at the front of your property near the water meter. Turn the tap clockwise until it stops. In most Brisbane homes this is a single quarter-turn lever or a round wheel valve.
If you can't find or turn the mains, call Urban Utilities on 13 26 57 — they can shut water at the street.
Step 2: Kill Power to Affected Areas
Water and electricity are a fatal mix. If water is near power points, light fittings or an electric hot water system, switch off the relevant circuits at your switchboard before touching anything.
Step 3: Drain the Pipes
Open every cold tap in the house — laundry, bathroom, kitchen, outside — to bleed the remaining pressurised water into the sinks instead of the burst pipe. Then flush toilets.
Step 4: Contain & Document
Move furniture, lift rugs, and photograph everything before you clean. Photos and video are what your insurer will ask for.
Step 5: Call a Licensed Plumber
Call VM Plumbing & Gas on 0447 926 993 — we're 24/7 across Brisbane and Logan and can typically be on site within 60 minutes for burst-pipe emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will home insurance cover a burst pipe?
Most Brisbane home insurance policies cover sudden burst-pipe damage but exclude gradual leaks. Report the incident within 24 hours and keep photos plus your plumber's report.
How long can I leave a burst pipe?
Not even overnight. A 6mm crack can leak over 1,500 litres per hour. Turn off the mains and call an emergency plumber immediately.
Can I patch a burst pipe myself?
Rubber sleeves and epoxy putty are temporary only — Queensland law requires a licensed plumber for permanent repairs on any pressurised water line.