Short answer: Shut off the main water valve immediately, then turn off power to any area where water is near outlets or the panel. Angi’s checklist continues: open faucets and flush toilets to drain the pipes, turn off the water heater, find and contain the leak, remove the water and run fans, photograph everything for insurance, and call an emergency plumber. If pipes are frozen but not burst yet, thaw them slowly with a hair dryer, starting at the faucet end; never use an open flame.
Quick diagnosis
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to check | Call a pro? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water spraying or pouring from a pipe | Burst pipe | Shut off main water now | Yes |
| No water from a faucet in freezing weather | Frozen pipe | Open the faucet; find the frozen section | If fully frozen |
| Thin trickle, cold weather | Partly frozen pipe | Warm the pipe from the faucet side | If it does not clear |
| Bulging ceiling or wall, water stain | Hidden pipe leak | Shut off water; see ceiling leak guide | Yes |
| Water bill jumps, low pressure, damp spots | Hidden leak | Check the water meter with taps off | Yes |
If a pipe bursts
- Shut off the main water valve (basement, crawl space, near the water heater or at the meter).
- Cut the power to the area if water is near outlets, fixtures or the panel, but only from a dry spot.
- Drain the system: open faucets, flush toilets and turn off the water heater.
- Contain it: rags around the break, buckets under drips; drain a bulging ceiling into a bucket.
- Remove water and dry: wet vac, mops, fans and dehumidifiers.
- Document: photos of the pipe and the damage before you throw anything away.
- Call an emergency plumber and your insurer.
Thawing frozen pipes safely
- Open the faucet the pipe feeds.
- If a pipe is cracked or fully frozen, shut off the main water first.
- Open cabinet doors and raise the heat.
- Warm the pipe from the faucet end back toward the supply with a hair dryer, heat tape or heating pad.
- Check for cracks and leaks as it thaws.
This Old House: “Never use an open flame to thaw or heat pipes.” Leave frozen or cracked outdoor pipes to a plumber.
Prevent the next freeze
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages and exterior walls.
- In a hard freeze, let a faucet drip and open sink cabinets on outside walls.
- Keep the heat on when you travel, and shut off the water if you will be away for days.
When to call a professional
- Any burst pipe: shut off the water and call right away.
- A pipe is fully frozen, cracked, or outdoors.
- Water got into walls, ceilings or under flooring.
What it usually costs
Angi reports burst pipe repair at about $500 on average, with emergency plumbers charging about $100 to $500 per visit. HomeGuide (2026) lists water damage restoration at about $2,000 to $6,000 for most jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first thing to do when a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve. Then deal with electricity near the water and call a plumber.
Does homeowners insurance cover a burst pipe?
Sudden bursts are often covered, but damage from long-term leaks or neglect usually is not. Check your policy.
Can I use a space heater to thaw pipes?
A space heater can warm the area if kept away from water and flammables, but never use an open flame on pipes.
Related problems
Sources
- Angi: 10 things to do when a pipe bursts in your home
- This Old House: How to unfreeze pipes
- HomeGuide: Water damage restoration cost (2026)
This guide is general information, not a substitute for an inspection by a licensed professional. See our disclaimer.