Can You Fix a Burst Pipe Yourself? What's Safe to Try

The first step is always the same: find your main shutoff valve and turn it off. If you do not know where it is, locate it now and write the location down. Turning off the water stops the flow and limits damage.

After the water is off, you can mop up standing water and move furniture away. You can also remove wet rugs and lift soaked carpet edges. These actions help reduce the risk of mold and make it easier for the pros to assess the damage.

• Shut off the main water valve
• Open faucets to drain remaining water
• Mop up standing water
• Move furniture and valuables to a dry area
• Remove wet rugs and lift carpet edges
• Take photos for your insurance records

Working on pipes involves risk. You could damage the pipe further, cause a leak in another spot, or even injure yourself. Water and electricity do not mix, so if the burst pipe is near outlets or appliances, call a professional instead.

Also, a poor repair can lead to hidden moisture inside walls. That moisture can cause mold growth and weaken structural wood. The pros have equipment to detect and dry hidden moisture, which is why professional help is often worth the cost.

Once the pipe is fixed, the cleanup continues. You may need to remove wet drywall and insulation, and dry the framing. The pros can handle this with structural drying and dehumidification. They also check for hidden moisture with moisture mapping.

Document everything for your insurance claim. Take photos of the damage and keep receipts for any supplies you bought. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand your deductible and coverage limits.