Why speed matters
A split copper line under full pressure can release a large volume of water quickly. The longer it runs, the more it soaks into drywall, insulation, flooring and anything stored below. Most of the damage you can prevent happens in the first few minutes.
The first steps, in order
- Close the main shut-off. If you do not know where it is, read locating the valve today, not during a leak.
- Open the lowest cold tap in the house, usually a laundry tub, to drain pressure.
- If water is near outlets, the panel or appliances, keep clear. Only flip breakers if your feet are on dry ground the whole way to the panel.
- Set a gas water heater to pilot, or switch off an electric one, if the main will stay closed for a while.
- Move valuables, rugs and boxes away from the water.
A pinhole in copper rarely stays alone. Where one opens, the pipe beside it is usually thinning too.
After the water is off
| Task | Why |
|---|---|
| Photograph everything | Insurers need evidence |
| Call your insurer early | They may arrange restoration |
| Start drying | Mould can begin within a couple of days |
| Call a plumber | To repair the pipe and restore water |
Handing it over to us
Immediately, once the water is off. We cut out the damaged section and restore water, usually on the same visit; see burst pipe repair. In winter, read frozen pipe prevention afterwards so it does not happen twice.
Markham note: village-core houses tend to hide cast iron and galvanized behind plaster, while Cornell and Box Grove builds run PEX to a manifold. We ask the year your house was built so the right fittings ride along on the truck.
Straight from the phone log
Can I use the toilet with the main shut?
Once, using the water in the tank. It will not refill until the main is open again.
Should I use a wet vac?
Yes, for standing water on hard floors, as long as there is no electrical risk.
Ready to get it fixed?
One call, a clear explanation, and work finished tidily before we leave.