Short answer
Shut off the main water valve, cut power to wet areas if it's safe, open a low faucet to drain the lines, then photograph everything and get water extraction started the same day. A plumber fixes the pipe; a restoration crew dries the house.
The first ten minutes
Speed matters more than anything else. Every minute the pipe runs adds gallons that soak into drywall, insulation and subfloor.
- Find the main shutoff: usually where the water line enters the house, in a basement, garage, crawl space or near the water heater. In warm climates it may be outside, near the meter.
- Turn it clockwise until it stops. If it won't turn, the street-side valve at the meter can be closed with a meter key.
- Open the lowest faucet in the house to drain pressure from the lines.
- If water is near outlets, light fixtures or the panel, turn off the breaker for that area. Don't stand in water to do it.
Protect people and belongings
Move furniture, rugs and electronics out of the water. Put aluminum foil or blocks under furniture legs you can't move so the stain doesn't transfer to carpet. If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep everyone out of the room below.
Document before cleanup
Take photos and video of the broken pipe, the water, and every damaged area before you move much. Keep the broken piece of pipe if the plumber removes it. Call your insurer and note the claim number.
When to call for professional drying
Call a restoration company when water reached walls, went under flooring, soaked carpet pad, came through a ceiling, or spread to more than one room. See burst pipe cleanup for what the crew does.
Questions
Should I turn off the water heater after a pipe bursts?
If the main water will be off for a while, yes. Turn off the gas or power to the heater so it doesn't heat an emptying tank.
Can I use a hair dryer to thaw a frozen pipe?
A hair dryer or heat lamp is safe; open flames are not. Open the faucet first and expect a leak if the pipe split.
This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice. Follow your insurer's instructions and local codes, and put safety first.