How to Handle a Burst Pipe at Night

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Immediately

The single most important thing you can do. Every second water continues flowing increases damage. Locate the shutoff valve nearest to the burst pipe — usually under the sink for kitchen or bathroom pipes. If you can't find it or the local shutoff doesn't work, go straight to the main shutoff valve, typically located:

• At the water meter (outside or in a utility area)
• Where the main supply line enters the house (basement, crawlspace, or utility room)
• Near the water heater in some homes

Turn it clockwise (righty-tighty) until fully closed. Water flow should stop within a few seconds.

Step 2: Open Cold Taps to Drain Pressure

After shutting off the supply, open all cold taps on the affected floor to drain any remaining pressure from the pipes. This reduces the amount of water that can seep through the burst point. Do not open hot taps — this can draw cold water through the hot water system and increase flow through the burst.

Step 3: Contain the Water

Use towels, buckets, and anything absorbent to contain the spread while you wait for the plumber. If water is coming through the ceiling:

• Place buckets to catch drips
• Move furniture and valuables out of the affected area
• Use a screwdriver to puncture the ceiling at the lowest point of a bulge — a controlled drip is better than a ceiling collapse

Step 4: Document the Damage

Before cleaning up, take photos and video of all damage for your insurance claim. Photograph: the burst pipe itself, water-damaged walls/floors/ceilings, any furniture or possessions affected, and the water meter reading if accessible. Do this before the plumber arrives and before any cleanup.

Step 5: Call an Emergency Plumber

Now that the immediate damage is contained, call a 24/7 emergency plumber. When you call, tell them:

• The approximate location of the burst (kitchen, bathroom, ceiling, etc.)
• Whether you've shut off the water supply
• Your full address
• Any access issues (e.g. apartment building, locked gate)

Ask for an ETA and a rough call-out fee estimate before they arrive.

Step 6: Contact Your Insurer

Call your home insurance emergency line (most policies have a 24/7 number). Sudden accidental water damage from a burst pipe is typically covered under dwelling protection. Let them know you've already called a plumber — some insurers require advance notification for emergency repairs above a certain cost threshold.

What Causes Pipes to Burst at Night?

The two most common causes:

• Freezing. Water expands as it freezes. Pipes in exterior walls, unheated crawlspaces, or garages are most vulnerable. The pipe doesn't actually burst while frozen — it bursts when it thaws and the pressure is released. This typically happens in the early morning hours after overnight temperatures drop.
• Age and corrosion. Older galvanised steel pipes corrode from the inside over decades. The failure often happens at a joint or fitting. No warning signs — it just goes.