The first ten minutes after a pipe bursts matter most. Here's exactly what to do.
Safety first: If water is near your electrical panel, outlets or appliances, do not walk through it. Stay safe first.
1. Shut off the water
Go to your main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. In most North York houses, it's in the basement on the wall facing the street, near the water meter. In condos, there's usually a shut-off in the suite, often in a utility closet or under a sink.
2. Deal with electricity safely
If water is spreading toward outlets or appliances and you can reach the electrical panel without standing in water, turn off the affected circuits. If you can't do it safely, leave it and call for help.
3. Drain the remaining water
Open the lowest cold-water tap in the house and flush toilets to relieve pressure and empty the lines. This reduces how much water continues to escape.
4. Protect your belongings and document
Move furniture, electronics and boxes away from the water. Take photos and video of the damage before cleanup for your insurance claim.
- Use towels and buckets to contain water
- Lift rugs off wet floors
- Open cabinets to let them dry
5. Call a plumber
A burst pipe needs a proper repair, not just a patch. Call a 24/7 plumber to locate the break and replace the damaged section.
Why pipes burst in Toronto
Most bursts in our area happen during deep cold, when water freezes in pipes running through exterior walls, garages or crawlspaces. Age and corrosion also play a role in older homes.