What should I do first if a pipe bursts?

Turn off the water at the stopcock, switch off electrics near the water if it's safe, drain the system by opening the cold taps, then call a plumber.

Why do pipes burst in winter?

Water expands when it freezes. Pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls are most at risk. Lagging exposed pipes and keeping the heating on low during cold snaps helps prevent it.

Can a leak behind a wall be found without ripping it out?

Often, yes. Plumbers can use moisture meters, thermal cameras or pressure testing to narrow it down before opening anything up.

Burst pipe or water leak?

Covering Bromley, Sidcup, Bexley and Dartford.

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Covering Bromley, Sidcup, Bexley and Dartford

Stop the damage first

Turn off the stopcock, then open all cold taps and flush the toilets to drain the pipes. Put a bucket under the leak and move valuables. If water is coming through a ceiling and it's bulging, it may be safer to make a small hole in the middle with a screwdriver, with a bucket below, so it drains in one place instead of bringing the ceiling down.

For your insurer

Take photos and video of the damage and the leak before it's repaired, and keep the plumber's invoice. Most home insurance policies cover water damage from a sudden escape of water, and many include trace-and-access cover to find hidden leaks.

Burst pipes and leaks by town

We arrange help with burst pipes and leaks across all four towns below; each page has local tips for that area.

How it works

You call or request a callback, a local plumber who covers your area rings you, and you agree a price with them before any work starts.

Call the number on this page. The line takes a few details: what's wrong, how urgent it is and your postcode.
Your job goes to independent local plumbers who cover your area.
A plumber calls you back to talk it through and agree a price before any work starts.

About the plumber

[Placeholder: the plumber's name, Gas Safe registration number, Checkatrade or Which? Trusted Traders profile and insurance details will be added here once a local plumber is signed up.]

Questions people ask

What should I do first if a pipe bursts?: Turn off the water at the stopcock, switch off electrics near the water if it's safe, drain the system by opening the cold taps, then call a plumber.
Why do pipes burst in winter?: Water expands when it freezes. Pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls are most at risk. Lagging exposed pipes and keeping the heating on low during cold snaps helps prevent it.
Can a leak behind a wall be found without ripping it out?: Often, yes. Plumbers can use moisture meters, thermal cameras or pressure testing to narrow it down before opening anything up.

Ready to get it sorted?

Call UsCall Us 07861 925301

Areas and services

Pick your town or the problem you have; every page is one tap from here.