Here’s What to Do if a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Steps to Take After a Burst Pipe

As a homeowner, it's important to know what to do in the case of a plumbing emergency in your home — including a burst pipe. Burst pipes can cause extensive water damage and can be very costly to repair. Here are our expert tips on how to deal with the aftermath of a burst pipe:

1. Shut Off the Water

If a pipe bursts in your home, the first thing you should do is shut off the water. This will help minimize the amount of damage caused by the water. Most homes have a main water shut-off valve near the water meter or main water line. Locate this valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.

2. Call AWS

Once you have shut off the water, it's time to call AWS Plumbing, Heating & Cooling so they can get on route as soon as possible. While you wait, take plenty of photos and videos of the affected areas. You will need these later for insurance purposes. They will be able to assess the damage and repair the broken pipe. In some cases, we may need to replace the entire section of the pipe that is damaged.

3. Start the Cleanup

Once the water has been shut off and after the damage has been assessed, it's time to start the cleanup process. If the water damage is extensive, you may need to hire a professional cleaning company. Otherwise, you can begin cleaning up the water damage yourself.

Start by removing any wet or damaged items from the affected area. If possible, move these items to a dry, safe location. Next, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water. Finally, use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the area and prevent mold growth.

4. File an Insurance Claim

If you have homeowner's insurance, you may be covered for the damage caused by the burst pipe. Be sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. They will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine how much they will cover. This is why it is important to take photos before cleaning up.

Plumbing Services in Lynbrook, NY

Dealing with a burst pipe can be stressful, but following these steps will help you get through it as smoothly as possible. If you have any questions or are in need of assistance after a burst pipe, be sure to contact our team at (516) 217-2196!