4 Steps to Take Immediately After Your Pipes Burst

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking pipe can cause flooding, so it's important to cut off the water source before you do anything else.

4 Steps to Take Immediately After Your Pipes Burst

If you're reading this article, chances are that your pipes have burst. Pipes bursting is a nightmare scenario for homeowners, but it doesn't have to be the end of the world. The first step in taking care of a burst pipe is to shut off water and power lines, which will prevent further damage from occurring until you can get help from professionals. After that, it's important to contact your insurance company and hire a restoration firm so they can ensure you're getting the best possible service at an affordable rate.

1. Shut off the water supply

The first step to repairing the damage caused by a bursting pipe is to turn off the water supply. A leaking pipe can cause flooding, so it's important to cut off the water source before you do anything else.

To shut off your home's main valve, look for a large valve that looks like two levers on opposite sides of each other. It will most likely be located in your basement or crawlspace beneath where you expect the burst pipe to be. If you're not sure about where this is or are unable to turn off your home's main valve, it may be time to call in an expert for assistance!

2. Shut off your power

Water and electricity do not mix. To keep yourself and others on your property safe following a pipe burst, is it important to shut off the power to your home or business. If you don't know how to turn off the power at your home, call an electrician. It's important that you do this before touching anything else in the house.

3. Contact SERVPRO

Now that you've taken care of the immediate situation, it's time to start making plans for how you're going to restore your home and get back on track. To do this, it's important to contact a professional water damage restoration company. They have the equipment and expertise needed to get the job done right—and they can also help you get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

4. Check your home insurance policy

Finally, it's important to check your home insurance policy. If you have one, consider how much coverage it provides for water damage and what any deductibles are and begin the claims process. Restoration professionals, such as the professionals at SERVPRO, will take care of the entire claims process for you.

If you don't have home insurance, consider getting it before the next big one hits!

Pipes do burst, but you can take steps to minimize the damage and deal with the crisis quickly and effectively.

It's important to understand that a burst pipe is not only a serious problem, but it can also be an expensive one. In fact, according to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) data, about half of all homeowners affected by flooding lose more than $10,000 worth of property damage — including their homes and belongings.

The good news is that most of these losses could've been prevented had homeowners taken proper precautions before the pipes burst. By following our steps below for what to do after your pipes burst in your home or business, you'll be able to minimize any damage caused by this unfortunate event and get back on track as quickly as possible.