They say the worst thing to tell someone in a panic is, don’t panic. And when a pipe suddenly bursts in your home, flooding your floors and walls, those two words are about as useful as a soggy mop. The truth is, no one’s at their calmest when water’s rushing out of a wall or ceiling. You’re scrambling to shut off the mains, googling emergency plumbers with wet socks, and trying to figure out how bad the damage is. Not ideal.
That’s why this guide isn’t just for when disaster strikes, it’s for before it does. Consider it your safety checklist. We’ll walk you through the warning signs of a burst pipe, the first steps to take when one happens, and how to prevent future plumbing chaos (without needing to become a pipe whisperer). Because if there’s one thing better than fast help during a plumbing emergency, it’s knowing exactly what to do until it arrives.
Why Burst Pipes Are So Common in Adelaide
Burst pipes do not occur overnight. They’re usually the result of slow, sneaky wear and tear over time. And in Adelaide, certain conditions can push old or vulnerable pipes past breaking point.
- Ground movement due to changes in the moisture levels
- Sudden shifts in the temperature
- Pipes that are not made to withstand strong water pressure
- Tree roots sneaking into underground pipes
- Aged plumbing infrastructure in some areas
- Mineral content in Adelaide’s water
Early Signs a Burst Pipe Might Be Coming
The good news? If you’re paying attention (or get an occasional inspection), you can usually spot trouble before things get out of hand.
Look out for these early signs that something’s off with your plumbing:
- Unusual spikes in your water bill
- Changes in water pressure
- Damp patches on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Musty smells or unexplained humidity in certain rooms
- Dripping or unusual water sounds inside the walls
- Changes in water colour from the taps
- Mould or mildew forming in odd places
What to Do When a Pipe Bursts (Step-by-Step)
But maybe you didn’t catch the early signs. And your hallway’s already turning into a wading pool. Now’s not the time for should-haves. If your pipe’s already burst, forget everything above (for now). Let’s shift into damage control.
Here’s exactly what to do to stay safe and minimise water damage until help arrives.
1. Shut off your water mains
Find your main shut-off valve. Usual locations:
- Near the water meter
- Under the kitchen sink
- In the laundry
You will need to turn it clockwise to stop the flow. This is the most important step and will prevent further flooding.
2. Turn off your electricity
If water is close to an electric source or appliances, switch off your power at the mains. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Additionally, avoid walking through flooded areas until this is done.
3. Relieve pressure by opening a tap
Open a cold water tap, ideally one lower in the house. This helps drain the remaining water in the system and reduces pressure in the pipes.
4. Move furniture and valuables
Shift your belongings away from the affected space. Even clean water can cause damage fast.
5. Catch the leak if possible
Place a bucket under the burst pipe if you can access it. Use towels or absorbent rags to slow the spread. Every drop you contain now means less trouble to deal with later.
6. Take photos for insurance
Before you mop up, quickly take photos or a short video of the damage. This will help with insurance claims.
7. Call an emergency plumber
Now’s the time to bring in the experts. A licensed plumber can locate the burst, assess internal damage, and do safe, lasting repairs. In Adelaide, you’ll want someone local who can get to you fast.
Speaking of Local Emergency Plumbers….
Did someone just say ‘expert emergency plumber in Adelaide’? Because that’s kind of our thing. At SOS Plumbing and Gas, we know there’s never a convenient time for a pipe to burst. That’s why we offer same-day service across Adelaide. Fast response times, upfront pricing, and fully licensed plumbers who actually show up when they say they will. We don’t just fix the mess, we help prevent the next one.
Save This for a Rainy Day (Literally)
Hopefully, your pipes stay intact and this guide never leaves your bookmarks. But if water ever starts pouring from a place it shouldn’t, you’ll know exactly what to do, and who to call.
SOS Plumbing and Gas is never too far. Quick, qualified, and ready to help when you need it most.
